Phan Thiet After More Than Half a Century of Growth Since Liberation Day
51 years after Liberation Day (April 19, 1975), Phan Thiet, once a small and struggling coastal town, has grown into a dynamic urban center with an increasingly modern appearance.
From Modest Beginnings to Comprehensive Development
Reflecting on 1975, Phan Thiet had approximately 70 Party members, an education system comprising fewer than five schools from primary to secondary levels, and a population of around 70,000. Infrastructure was lacking, living conditions were challenging, and the economy primarily depended on small-scale production.
Over the past five decades, Phan Thiet has undergone profound changes. Currently, in the seven wards and communes of Phan Thiet City (before administrative consolidation), there are over 7,000 Party members. The education system has grown considerably, including 7 high schools, 26 lower secondary schools, 30 primary schools, and 35 kindergartens. The population has increased to more than 250,000, and the quality of life continues to improve consistently.
Urban infrastructure has been systematically upgraded. Notably, the dual-use Phan Thiet Airport has begun military operations and is expected to launch civilian services soon. Once fully operational, it will strengthen domestic and international connectivity, providing a major boost to tourism, trade, and services.
According to Nguyen Thu Son, former Secretary of the Phan Thiet City Party Committee (2013–2020), the provincial merger has opened new development space for localities in the former Phan Thiet City area and across Lam Dong Province. The harmonious combination of Phan Thiet’s advantages—blue seas, white sand, and golden sunshine—with Lam Dong’s vast highlands, cool climate, and strengths in eco-tourism has created greater potential for diverse, sustainable development in the future.
From Heroic Memories to the Foundation of Today
To achieve the accomplishments of today, it is essential to reflect on the years of hard-fought struggles and the difficult times that followed liberation.
Giang Hong Linh (born in 1947 and currently living in Phu Thuy Ward) is among those who actively participated in the fighting and the liberation of Phan Thiet.
He joined the revolutionary movement in 1965 as an undercover guerrilla. By 1967, he was appointed to lead the Ham Thuan Security Unit and later worked with the provincial security department. From 1969 to 1975, he served as head of the Provincial Armed Security Unit, based in Phan Thiet. He played a direct role in many significant missions.
Linh recalled that April 19, 1975—the day Phan Thiet was liberated—was a major milestone, but it also came amid many challenges. Security and public order remained fragile, remnants of the previous regime were still present, and many residents were living in hardship. Revolutionary forces had to move quickly to restore stability and ensure peaceful lives for the people.
He noted that the period following liberation was exceptionally tough, as it demanded both economic recovery and political consolidation while upholding security and order. Nevertheless, with the guidance of the central government and the collective spirit of the people, the situation steadily improved.
Reflecting on the journey, Linh said: “Our greatest joy is seeing our hometown continue to develop, with local people enjoying a more prosperous and fulfilling life. That is the true meaning of the sacrifices made by our generation.”
Phan Thiet Ward, one of the seven wards and communes that made up the former Phan Thiet City, is strengthening its role as a key urban center, with several major projects under way
Among these are the renovation of the Ca Ty River embankment and the coastal road connecting Tien Thanh to Mui Ne. These initiatives not only enhance urban infrastructure but also establish new development opportunities for tourism, services, and the local economy.
Over fifty years have elapsed since Liberation Day. The once-modest coastal town of Phan Thiet has transformed into a vibrant, contemporary place while still honoring its important traditional values.
From humble beginnings, the area has made remarkable and comprehensive advancements in all sectors. These achievements reflect not only socio-economic development but also the perseverance, determination, and aspirations of generations of local people.
Undoubtedly, the heroic memories of liberation will always serve as a strong source of spiritual inspiration, bolstering confidence and guiding this region steadily along its path of development—quicker, more sustainable, and more deeply connected to the global community.
With its strategic location, tourism potential, and synchronized investment in infrastructure and development policies, this area will certainly continue to make breakthroughs and become a standout highlight of Lam Dong Province.