“As we celebrate our 25th year, we begin a new era of growth as we look forward to the next 25 years. Since then, we have witnessed the island's transformation and growth. Despite many challenges and difficulties, we have consistently received blessings, help, opportunities and support from the private sector and national agencies partners," Mayor Al David T. Uy said today, March 1, 2023, at the Opening Salvo, dubbed "Pag Abli Sa Kasaulugan," at the City Hall Mega Tent, in front of the New City Hall Peńaplata.

Soon, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) building will rise at the back of the new city, making Samalenyo easier to transact with national agencies.

The Davao-Samal Bridge construction had begun. It has the potential to significantly alter the island's landscape. Mayor Uy also emphasized the moral responsibility of current leaders to shape future leaders who will carry on the work that has begun.

Mayor Uy, along with the 9th city council, department heads, and employees, officially kicks off the 25th anniversary of the city's founding by banging the gong.

Meanwhile, the unveiling of the local government’s awards, “Hulagway sa Kadaugan,” involved revealing the awards and citations received for the 25th fruitful year of achievements and partnership that fostered the progress and development of the Island Garden City of Samal.

The day began with a Eucharistic Mass celebrated by Msgr. Paul A. Cuison and the parish priests of the entire island. The service was attended by city officials and employees. (CIO-IGACOS/Photos by RConcepcion)