PH envoys prioritize Davao, Mindanao in international economic efforts

“Davao City and Mindanao are the forefront of our economic diplomacy efforts,” says newly-appointed Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia, Gina Alagon Jamoralin.

Ambassador Jamoralin headed a delegation of 17 newly-appointed Philippine ambassadors in a courtesy meeting with Davao City Vice Mayor J. Melchor B. Quitain on December 09 at the City Hall.

During the discussion, Ambassador Jamoralin expressed that they would continue prioritizing Davao City, as it is Mindanao’s growth engine. The Ambassador also mentioned that they look forward to Davao forging greater international cooperation.

Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand Agbayani Ver, the new Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) lauded Davao’s growth and highlighted its readiness for further economic progress through international partnerships, saying: “Davao is very ready (for investments, economic growth) in terms of seaports, airports, people, and skills, especially given its political stability.

Vice Mayor Quitain thanked the delegation for their positive feedback on Davao City and expressed hopes for further partnerships with the ambassadors.

The said courtesy call is part of the itinerary of the newly-appointed ambassadors for the Economic Diplomacy Program in Davao City. Organized by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the program aims to provide envoys with opportunities to learn more about the economies of top Philippine cities before leaving for their designated posts.

The Economic Diplomacy Program (EDP) is also designed for Ambassadors to meet with local officials and learn about the local government’s priorities. The EDP delegates are in Davao City from December 08 to 10.