Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro is leading the province’s delegation to China for the 23rd China ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), where Cebu will showcase its businesses, products, tourism offerings and investment opportunities as the Philippines’ “Province of Charm.”
Baricuatro’s Sept. 15 to 21 visit to Nanning, Guangxi, puts Cebu in an international trade and investment gathering that will bring together government officials, businesses, investors and other stakeholders from China and ASEAN member states, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government Cebu Provincial Field Office.
The provincial government is using the expo to present Cebu beyond its established tourism attractions, with locally produced goods, enterprises, tourism services and potential investments included in the provincial showcase.
The Philippines has also been named the Country of Honor for this year’s CAEXPO, giving Cebu an additional platform to promote its economic and tourism potential.
“It is an honor for Cebu to be chosen as a Province of Charm at CAEXPO, and I am excited for the opportunity to showcase our province, our people, and our potential to a wider international audience,” Baricuatro said.
Among the products to be featured is Tuburan Coffee, along with other goods and enterprises from different local government units and the private sector. Tourism establishments, including resorts, are also participating to promote Cebu to international visitors and potential business partners.
Representatives of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry are also part of the delegation.
Baricuatro said previous international engagements showed how participation in overseas activities could lead to opportunities for Cebu.
“During our previous visit to China, we were able to help open a direct flight that strengthens our connectivity. In Japan, we began discussions on potential waste-to-energy solutions for Cebu through GUUN,” she said.
She said the CAEXPO provides another opportunity to build connections with potential buyers, investors and partners as representatives from China and ASEAN gather at one venue.
“This time, with ASEAN countries and China coming together, and with investors, businesses, tourism stakeholders, and government leaders all in one place, I am optimistic that we will be able to open even more doors and secure new opportunities for Cebu,” she added.
The provincial government said the participation is intended to help Cebuano enterprises establish connections with potential buyers, investors and business partners while strengthening the province’s position in tourism, trade and investment.
While Baricuatro is in China, Vice Gov. Glenn Anthony Soco has assumed the duties of Cebu governor as officer in charge.
The DILG Cebu Provincial Field Office formally notified Soco of his designation in a letter dated Sept. 14, citing Section 46(a) of Republic Act 7160, or the Local Government Code, concerning the temporary incapacity of a local chief executive.
As Cebu takes the “Province of Charm” spotlight, Baricuatro said the province hopes to use the international exposure to highlight what it can offer beyond its well-known destinations.
“And this is truly another chance for us to show the world just how charming Cebu is—not only because of our beautiful destinations, but because of our people, our talent, our opportunities, and everything that Cebu has to offer,” she said.
Photo courtesy of Gov. Pam Baricuatro - The People’s Governor / FB Page
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