IMUS, Cavite — Cavite Governor Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla has called for unity and perseverance in a bid to achieve development and progress in the cities and towns of the province.

Remulla made the call as he accepted the symbolic provincial emblem from outgoing Governor Ireneo “Ayong” S. Maliksi during a simple turnover ceremony held recently at the Capitol in Trece Martires City.

The emblem turnover showed the smooth transition of power in the province and signaled the reign of the Remulla administration.

In his acceptance speech, Remulla vowed to perform in terms of services, peace and order, development and the other much-needed concerns.

Cavite is considered the most densely-populated province in the country. There are over three million people living in the province’s 19 towns and four cities. Officials said poverty, crimes, drug abuse, poor education and health concerns remained to be among the problems in the area.

Remulla, 43, is one of the youngest governors in the country. He is a son of Johnny Remulla, a governor who reigned in Cavite for 14 years and brother of elected 7th district Congressman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla.

A former three-term provincial vice governor, the young Remulla replaced the 72-year-old white-haired Maliksi who ended his three-terms as provincial chief executive last June 30. Maliksi is now serving as congressman of the new lone district of Imus after he was elected in the town last May 10.

In his speech, Remulla also thanked and cited Maliksi, whom he called “mentor and political ally,” for his goodness, performance and accomplishments during his tenure. The new governor also called for unity and perseverance among leaders and residents to achieve greater progress for the province.

In his brief farewell message, Maliksi assured his “full-support” to Remulla and his administration and thanked the people for the kindness and cooperation that they have shown during his leadership.

The ceremony, held last Wednesday, was led by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Efren Echavia. The event was witnessed by the previous and new members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Legislative Board), heads of different provincial agencies and units and guests of the new administration.

Remulla was sworn-in as the new provincial chief executive by Cavite Provincial Prosecutor Emmanuel Velasco during his inauguration at Tanza Cathedral last Saturday afternoon.