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To develop their understanding of the economic progress in the city and promote stronger bilateral ties between Australia and the Philippines, Mr. Luke Villiers, an Economic Counsellor from the Australian Embassy in the Philippines, and two of his colleagues recently made a courtesy call to Davao City officials. The courtesy meeting was held at the City Council’s Session Hall, Davao City on January 23.
Davao City Vice-Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. in his welcome remarks, highlighted how accessible and progressive Davao City has been for the following years due to its economic and infrastructure development.
“We hope to surpass our revenue collections compared to last year’s, as many businesses have opened here in Davao City – big businesses, some coming from Manila and even abroad. Foreign investments are also pouring in,” Vice Mayor Quitain said.
He also highlighted that the city has been improving its accommodations as it opens its doors to the largest gathering of meetings, incentive travel, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE), which has been an active strategy to attract and bolster the business industry.
In the same way, Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, Chairperson for the Committee on International Relations, said that Davao City has been offering its incentives and other services to local and foreign investors, including Australian businessmen.
He underscored that Davao Region has been recently cited as one of the most peaceful cities in Southeast Asia. He also invited the Australian Embassy and its delegation to join the city as it celebrates the Kadayawan Festival in August.
In response, Mr. Luke Villiers, Counsellor from the Australian Embassy in the Philippines, said as part of their effort to exhibit Australia into the business market, they expressed interest in increasing its investment to the countries in Southeast Asia, ensuring its security and stability among the country.
Mr. Villiers pointed out that they’ve seen Davao City’s business environment as dynamic and resilient, and intends to know more about its economic drivers and preferred investment areas.
