MANILA, Philippines — Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Sarte Salceda announced his 'Global Albay' vision for regional progress, which he intends to initiate in Legazpi City, a rapidly growing urban center with a population of over 200,000.

Legazpi City serves as the provincial capital of Albay and a key regional hub in the Bicol region.

Salceda made this declaration during the launch of his campaign for the governorship at Sawangan Park, Puro Beach, emphasizing that the city's development is crucial for the advancement of Albay.

He stated, 'Legazpi provides jobs for our citizens, markets for our products, capital for businesses, and schools for our youth.'

Salceda highlighted the appeal of Legazpi City, noting its proximity to the scenic Mayon Volcano and Albay Gulf, which attract thousands of tourists each year.

He stressed that the capacity of Legazpi matches the strength and resilience of Albay itself.

He asserted that there would be no 'Global Albay' without a 'Dignified Legazpi,' which aims to gain international recognition and is home to the Albay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the second oldest chamber of commerce in the Philippines due to the region's flourishing abaca industry.

Legazpi has previously earned the title of the 'Cleanest City in the Philippines' and serves as the Administrative Capital of Bicol, as well as a center of 'Bicol Arts and Culture' and the origin of the well-renowned 'Ibalong Festival.' Salceda pointed out that over the past two decades, with the alignment of leaders' visions in Albay, Legazpi has experienced rapid improvements in infrastructure and economic growth.

He detailed various projects, including the construction of numerous roads connecting the city to surrounding towns and barangays, the new Albay International Airport (BIA), and the enhancement of tourist sites.

Salceda noted significant expansions of healthcare facilities, such as the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC), the establishment of the Bicol Cancer Center and Bicol Heart Center, as well as upgrades to Bicol University and Legazpi City National High School.

He mentioned the completion of social infrastructure projects, including 58 covered courts, healthcare facilities, 140 classrooms, and evacuation centers.

Reflecting on past challenges, Salceda stated that after experiencing devastation from Supertyphoon Reming during his previous governorship, efforts were made to address the damage caused by multiple strong typhoons without fatalities, and successfully overcoming the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He noted that Legazpi greatly benefited from having a substantial number of representatives in Congress, with six members serving simultaneously.

Salceda called for unity among the people of Albay to position the province as a center of national and global commerce.