A Father’s Dream, a Daughter’s Legacy: The Capitol Elevator That Will Welcome All

Daphne Santuyo

Soon, a long-held dream will take shape in the halls of the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Capitol, an elevator that will carry seniors, persons with disabilities, and all citizens effortlessly to the top floors. Though it is still in the process of being installed, the project carries more than steel and machinery. It carries the vision and love of a father who dreamed of a province built for the people.

The elevator was envisioned by former Governor George T. Hofer, the man whose tireless efforts led to the creation of Zamboanga Sibugay out of Zamboanga del Sur more than 25 years ago. When he fought for the creation of the province, his dream was not only to carve out a political boundary, but to build a province where service to every citizen was accessible, fair, and inclusive. He imagined a provincial government that reached out to its people, providing opportunities and dignity to all, regardless of age, ability, or circumstance.

During his time as governor, George T. Hofer first held office under the majestic Balete tree, the very same tree that now stands proudly in front of the Capitol, its roots and branches a living reminder of the province’s beginnings, and where his statue now honors his enduring legacy. For many years afterward, he carried out his duties at the Cogon Palace, a structure that today evokes nostalgia, a tangible memory of Zamboanga Sibugay’s earliest days as a young province finding its footing.

It was there, in these humble beginnings, that Governor Hofer personally felt the challenges many citizens encounter daily. Climbing the stairs to meet visitors, attend meetings, or oversee provincial affairs was often a physical strain, yet he never wavered in his resolve to welcome everyone who came to the capitol. That first-hand experience of difficulty became a guiding principle for his leadership. No citizen, regardless of age or ability, should be barred by physical obstacles from accessing government services or participating in civic life.

Now, the elevator, still in the process of being installed, stands as a tangible embodiment of that philosophy. It is more than a lift. It is a symbol of dignity, inclusion, and the promise that the doors of governance, culture, and heritage will be open to all, just as Governor Hofer always envisioned.

For Gov. Hofer, leadership was more than policy. It was a personal commitment to ensuring every resident could participate fully in the life of the province. He believed that the young and elderly, the differently-abled, and hardworking families of Zamboanga Sibugay deserved equal access to services, culture, and heritage. The elevator continues that vision, providing a pathway toward inclusivity and respect for all.

Today, the dream is being carried forward by his daughter, Governor Dulce Ann K. Hofer, who has guided the project through its planning and approval stages. Once installed, the elevator will not only provide access to the upper floors but also open the doors to the provincial museum on the 4th floor, where the history, culture, and identity of Zamboanga Sibugay will be preserved for future generations. Students on school trips, senior citizens curious to learn, and persons with disabilities who once faced barriers will all finally be able to engage fully with the province’s heritage when it finally opens.

Now that Zamboanga Sibugay is about to celebrate her 25th founding anniversary, it is a time to reflect and give thanks to the many people who gave their all to make what once seemed impossible a reality. Many of these pioneers may no longer be here to celebrate, and many more remain unknown names to most, yet their dedication, labor, and vision are woven into the very foundation of the province. Their legacy lives on in the everyday lives of citizens, the structures of governance, and the inclusive vision that continues to guide the province today.

For seniors, differently-abled citizens, and countless visitors who will ride the elevator, it represents hope, access, and recognition. It is a symbol that the province values every life, every story, and every contribution. The accompanying museum, reachable thanks to this new accessibility, ensures that Zamboanga Sibugay’s rich heritage is open to all, honoring the past while inspiring the next generation.

As the elevator installation progresses, the capitol buzzes not just with construction, but with anticipation, gratitude, and quiet admiration for a father’s vision and a daughter’s dedication. In a building where leadership meets community, this elevator will do more than lift people. It will lift a dream, a legacy, and the spirit of an entire province, fulfilling the promise of Zamboanga Sibugay as a home built for its people.