US Embassy official visits Davao City, seeks to enhance partnership and cooperation

Esteemed officers of the United States (US) Mission’s Political Section and US Embassy’s External Affairs paid a courtesy call to Davao City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte on November 21 at Matina Enclaves, Davao City. 

Mr. Travis Warner, US Embassy’s External Affairs officer, together with US Mission’s Political Section member, Amiel Jeremy Diaz, who also covers Political-Military and External Affairs, intends to gain invaluable insights on Davao City’s political and economic affairs, rich history, and vibrant culture.

The meeting also further fosters deeper understanding and to explore engaging bilateral relations between the City Government of Davao and the US Embassy in Manila.

During the courtesy meeting, Mr. Warner expressed its interest to familiarize with the city’s major priorities, as well as the various programs of Davao City that consistently promote values among the locals. Mr. Warner also voiced their support on suggesting to lift travel advisories issued by some countries against Mindanao, as it surely affects the tourism and economic sector of the region.

Accordingly, Mayor Duterte underscored how the city has continuously laid out infrastructure projects, especially for mass transportation, as the local government seeks to ensure and prioritize improving the quality of life among the Dabawenyos.

He also highlighted how Dabawenyos give utmost significance in being disciplined, as he believed this will not just shape the next generation of Dabawenyos, but also contribute to the city’s success.

Mayor Duterte added that while Davao City continues to open its doors for investments and collaboration among other countries to generate more job opportunities among the citizens, he still emphasized the importance of maintaining friendly relations to the neighboring countries.

On a separate note, Mr. Warner also shared the US Embassy’s plan to establish its own consulate in Davao City in the near future.

Previously, the US Embassy in the Philippines donated personal protective equipment (PPE) and hygiene kits to support Davao City’s efforts to address COVID-19, which was handed over to former Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio on August 26, 2020.