Vice President Sara Duterte lauded Thursday the efforts of the people behind the remarkable achievements of Batangas province in the past four centuries.

The vice president made the statement during the celebration of the 441st founding anniversary of Batangas.

In a Facebook post, Duterte said the work of its people is praise-worthy considering how Batangas has been fortified for over four centuries.

“Tunay na mahaba na ang pinagdaanan ng probinsya at pinupuri natin ang mga lider at mga Batangueño sa paghubog ng isang matatag na Batangas (The province has truly gone through a lot and we are praising its leaders and the people in transforming Batangas into strong province),” she said.

“Dahil dito, naging maayos ang ekonomiya, turismo, human resource, at mga pagbabago na nakatuon sa pagpapaunlad ng probinsya (Because of this, their economy, tourism, human resource and changes are all geared to the progress of the province),” Duterte added.

She said this character of the people would further bring more successes to the province.

“Four hundred forty-one years of pursuing your own progress, driving Batangueños to face the future with hope and optimism that your individual and collective efforts will bring about social reforms,” she said during her speech.

Honorary public service

The vice president, meanwhile, was recognized during the province’s Dangal ng Batangan for public service.

Duterte was honored as “Natatanging Batangueño,” with her husband coming from Ibaan.

She then underscored the value of service with dignity and honor as she received the award.

Besides Duterte, other personalities recognized were Senator Ralph Recto, Judge Alvin Landicho, Dr. Roberto Magsino, Justice Rosmari Carandang and Admiral Artemio Abu. (PNA)