English
Chinese (Simplified)
Japanese
Korean
Spanish
Distinguished delegates from Hitachinaka City, Japan, recently paid a courtesy call to Davao City Vice-Mayor Atty. J. Melchor Quitain Jr., expressed their keen interest in exploring opportunities for economic exchange and local expansion within the city.
The courtesy call was held on Thursday, February 13, on the 3rd floor of the new Councilor’s Lounge of Sangguniang Panlungsod, San Pedro St., Davao City. The delegation was led by Deputy Mayor Kouji Yoshidomi, accompanied by representatives from the Hitachinaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
During the meeting, April Marie Dayap, Officer-in-Charge of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center, highlighted the significance of this engagement in strengthening the ties between Davao City and Hitachinaka City.
“We are excited to explore new opportunities for collaboration, economic growth, and mutual development,” Ms. Dayap stated.
Deputy Mayor Yoshidomi echoed this enthusiasm, expressing optimism about the future economic relationship between the two cities. He recalled signing an economic friendship agreement between the Hitachinaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Mindanao Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2018, followed by another agreement with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2019. However, he noted that these exchanges were hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This time, I visited to gain a deeper understanding of the current economic landscape in Davao after the pandemic and to discuss avenues for future exchanges between our cities,” the Deputy Mayor remarked.
Vice-Mayor Quitain warmly welcomed the delegation, expressing his gratitude for their visit. He emphasized that their presence paves the way for fruitful discussions and will further solidify the partnership between Davao City and Hitachinaka City.
During their visit, the delegation also participated in Emperor Naruhito’s 65th Birthday Reception, hosted by the Consulate General of Japan at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City.
Hitachinaka City, an industrial port city located 110 km north of central Tokyo and northeast of Mito City, the capital of Ibaraki Prefecture, boasts a strategic location near Tokyo with access to major transportation hubs, making it an attractive destination for businesses and investors. Historically developed as a company town for Hitachi group factories, the city remains heavily influenced by the Hitachi corporation. Beyond its industrial prowess, Hitachinaka also thrives in sectors such as commercial fishing, shipping, agriculture, and seasonal tourism. Notably, the city is renowned for its dried sweet potatoes, a specialty product made from locally grown produce, which has gained recognition for its quality and distinct flavor.
