Unaffected by the global economic crisis, Siquijor province remains strong and self-sufficient.

This was stressed earlier by Provincial Governor Orlando "Shane" Fua Jr. during the province's celebration of 38th Charter Anniversary last week.

Owing to its strength in agriculture, tourism and the people's skills in making use of indigenous resources to make a living, Siquijor province is faring well than other places in the country.

"Wala ta magsalig sa ubang lalawigan sa atong patigayon...hinuon hinglantaw ta unsa'y atong mahimo sa atong kaugalingong laguwerta. Atong gipahimuslan ang tanan natong indigenous resources nga mahimo natong mahikap," he said while urging all the mayors to showcase each town's indigenous livelihood capabilities during the Araw ng Siquijor's agri-trade fair: squash noodles making for Larena, sugar making for Enrique Villanueva, basket/loom weaving for Siquijor, rock salt making for Maria, sinamay/maguey weaving, bamboo, wood and other crafts for San Juan and Lazi.

Gov. Fua also cited that records from the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics showed that Siquijor province is already self-sufficient in corn while needing 35% more to become self-sufficient in rice.

"This year we're trying to harness the skills of our people and the resources of the government," to increase our productivity, the Governor said. "We want Siquijor to be self-sufficient not only in corn and rice but in vegetables, as well," he said citing the Bio-N production in Lazi and the OSFUA (Optimizing Sustainable Food Upliftment Alternatives) program, among other local initiatives in the province.

"Mao ni ang Siquijor nga atong ikapanghinambog. Siquijor nga miuswag sa iyang kaugalingong paningkamot," he said.

The governor assured that measures are being taken to ensure that the government is giving the Siquijodnon the support they need in these challenging times. "These efforts range from livelihood activities to generate jobs and income to improving the province's tourism industry.

"Sa atong pangahiusa, sa atong panagtimbayayong, walay bituon sa langit nga dili nato mapupo," the Governor said.

From "Festival of all festivals" Gov. Fua turned the Araw ng Siquijor this year into a "Festival of Life" to commemorate the triumph for Independence of the island and reviving it's people's indigenous livelihood capabilities. (PIA-Siquijor)