DAVAO CITY — Vice President Sara Duterte has called for stronger cooperation between Mindanao and Borneo, highlighting the need for safer trade, better connectivity, and more opportunities for local communities.
Speaking at the Davao-Borneo Growth Corridor Forum ’26 on September 18, Duterte said Mindanao and Borneo share long-standing cultural and economic ties that can be strengthened through practical cooperation.
She pointed to the potential of agriculture, tourism, trade, logistics, and investment, saying the region’s existing connections can be developed into wider economic opportunities.
Duterte also stressed that infrastructure should serve a clear purpose—helping farmers, traders, businesses, and workers connect more easily with markets across the region.
She encouraged governments and businesses to work together on safer maritime routes, clearer customs procedures, stronger infrastructure, and legitimate cross-border trade.
The Vice President said the goal should not only be bigger trade and investment figures, but also more opportunities for people to build their future while staying in Mindanao.
“Let us move from proximity to connectivity, from connectivity to opportunity, and from opportunity to shared prosperity,” Duterte said.
