Olongapo City – Mayoralty candidate Arnold Vegafria expressed his firm belief that today’s youth have the potential to become exemplary leaders, provided they are raised with strong values, character, and decency.
“The youth will always be at the top of my political agenda,” Vegafria said during a youth sector community forum held at the Palace Hotel on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
In his address, Vegafria laid out his vision for a “modern Olongapo City,” equipped with advanced infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and facilities that would position the city alongside the most progressive urban centers in the country.
He highlighted Olongapo’s strategic location and its wealth of natural attractions, which he believes can once again make the city a premier tourist destination and a magnet for foreign investors.
Vegafria’s platform focuses on economic recovery, job creation, tourism redevelopment, the revitalization of economic zones, and youth empowerment. He also emphasized initiatives in education, sports development, arts and culture, mental health awareness, and a youth-centered governance approach.
A key part of his vision includes restoring Olongapo’s former reputation as the country’s “entertainment capital,” akin to the role Las Vegas plays in the United States.
Vegafria also announced plans to construct a world-class international convention center near Barangay Barretto, which he envisions as a prime venue for major business events, product launches, and international conferences.
“We have the potential to make Olongapo a vibrant, progressive city once again — for our youth and for future generations,” he said.