Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya paid Gov. Gwen Garcia a courtesy visit at the Capitol on Wednesday, July 17.
Ambassador Endo replaced Koshikawa Kazuhiko whose term, which began in 2020, has ended in March this year.
The meeting held at the Governor’s Office focused on avenues for collaboration and mutual development initiatives, such as those that push for more Japanese tourist arrivals in the province.
Ambassador Endo expressed confidence in Cebu’s potential to attract more Japanese investors, emphasizing the mutual benefit of a strengthened bilateral economic cooperation since there are already existing Japanese companies in the province.
Gov. Gwen assured the ambassador that any Japanese investor who wishes to operate in Cebu is welcome and could even tap the government through the Public- Private Partnership.
Governor Gwen also highlighted Japanese companies that have found a home in Cebu, such as Mitsumi in Danao, Taiheyo Cement in San Fernando, and Tsuneishi Heavy Industries in Balamban.
“I have always been protective with foreign investors,” Gov. Gwen said.
The Japanese Ambassador appreciated how the Governor has taken care of the Japanese investors here, and vowed to have an open door policy when it comes to working with the Province of Cebu. | Ivienz Troy Baraquia, CNU Intern