Gov. Gwen Garcia welcomed into the Capitol businessmen-members of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, January 31. They were led by their president and CEO, Randy Peers; as well as Philippine Consul General in New York Senen Mangalile.
“It seems to me Cebu is also on the rise,” said Mr. Peers, who is a first-time visitor of the country.
“It seems to me that you’re putting all of the elements in place to attract new investment, to grow new industries, and to really be at the forefront of an economic renaissance for the entire region. So I think the timing is right,” he added.
The purpose of the visit is for the Americans to learn more about Cebu and potentially establish partnerships and business ventures here.
Despite having a hoarse voice, Gov. Garcia spoke with a sense of pride that has defined the true Cebuano, mustering the inner strength that she clearly possesses in abundance.
“Cebu is a place like no other. We are, without fear of contradiction, I believe the brightest spot in the country today,” Gov. Garcia said in her speech.
“While other areas might have their own fights and wars and battles to attend to, as far as all of us are concerned, here in Cebu, our only battle is to keep the economy going, to push Cebu to greater heights, to uplift the lives of our constituents, and continue on this elevated status as the country's number one province,” the governor added.
The governor was also joined by members of the Provincial Board, as well as officials of the Cebu City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mactan Export Processing Zone Chamber of Exporters and Manufacturers. | Mary Ann Malaya