NANNING, China (PIA) - - The Tuguegarao City is featured as the 'City of Charm' of the Philippines in the 20th China-ASEAN Expo 2023 held in Nanning, Guangxi, China on September 16-19.

The city is showcased as a 'Smart, Green and Livable City' of the Philippines, ideal for businesses and offices, and a great place to live in. 

Mayor Maila Ting-Que said that part of the city's vision is to provide endless business opportunities that will enable economic growth, jobs generation and livelihood opportunities. 

"Our city is excellent for forging partnerships to sustain our local economic development. We welcome big ticket investments that will generate employment and provide sustainable solutions in our city," the Mayor said. 

The city government featured the city's tourism potentials to include food tourism highlighting the Pansit Batil Patung, Tuguegarao Garlic Longanisa, Chicharabao and other local products.

It also showcased educational tourism featuring Cagayan State University, Saint Paul University Philippines, Saint Louis University and University of Cagayan Valley - the leading and top performing universities in different academic fields.

Medical tourism is also featured considering the top medical centers in the city that provide quality health care, especially the Cagayan Valley Medical Center - the tertiary state hospital in the city.

Mayor Ting-Que also presented the city's investment priority areas to potential investors on infrastructure, agri-business, agro-industry, light industry, alternative energy, tourism, export, creative and knowledge-based industry, and waste management. 

"Indeed, Tuguegarao City is doing its best in accompanying the business sector towards sustainable development. Your business-friendly city is taking many steps forward in achieving its vision. There's more for Tuguegarao. Invest in our city and we guarantee you that your investment will be seen, will be felt and will be loved," the Mayor said as she urged foreign investors to visit Tuguegarao City. 

Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo of the Department of Trade and Industry and the head of the Philippine delegation led the formal opening of the Philippine Pavilion where Tuguegarao City is featured.

He said the country’s participation in the CAExpo is envisioned to be a platform to connect, network, and explore mutual interests for enhanced trade relations. 

"We thank Tuguegarao City for coming here to be featured as the 'City of Charm' of the Philippines for the milestone 20th CAExpo 2023," Rodolfo said. 

He said the pavilion is themed "Bridging Horizons" as it foster stronger economic ties and promote collaboration between the Philippines and the China-ASEAN community.

"Bridging Horizons is an empowering and inspiring event theme that focuses on overcoming obstacles, challenging limitations, and achieving extraordinary goals. It celebrates the triumph and the courage to push beyond boundaries. Whether in the context of partnerships or opprotunities for business, this theme is a show of perseverance and success," Rodolfo said. 

He further said that from trade exhibitions and culturual exchange to business matching and investment opportunities, the Philippine pavilion demonstrates the country's capabilities in an increasingly competitive international market. 

On culture, the Tuguegarao City Pavvurulun Cultural Performers showcased Philippine cultural dances and songs to include the Tinikling, Cariñosa, La Jota, Maskota and other Philippine dances.  (OTB/PIA Region 2)