Iloilo City Mayor Emphasizes ASEAN Meeting Benefits for Tourism and Economic Growth
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas has underscored the significant benefits of hosting the 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration, highlighting tourism trainings, digital platform linkages, and investment prospects for the city.
A Milestone for International Engagement
Mayor Treñas stated that hosting the 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration marked a meaningful milestone for Iloilo City. This event showcased the city's capability to host major international engagements and strengthened its position as an emerging hub for trade, services, and innovation in Southeast Asia.
The mayor emphasized that ASEAN engagement has already brought concrete benefits to the city, particularly in tourism and economic development initiatives. She expressed appreciation for the immediate and tangible gains provided to industry stakeholders through these efforts.
Tourism Sector Development and Digital Integration
Treñas revealed that ASEAN has extended capacity development trainings for the local tourism sector in Iloilo City. These trainings are designed to enhance the skills and capabilities of tourism professionals, providing them with tools to compete more effectively in the regional market.
Under the ASEAN Economic Community framework, Iloilo City will be linked with Agoda to help strengthen the digital presence of its tourism-related enterprises. This partnership will train tourism content companies on how to effectively package and list their products and services on global online platforms, enabling them to reach a wider international market.
IT-BPM Sector Growth and Investment Prospects
The mayor also highlighted Iloilo City's growing information technology and business process management sector, citing its English-proficient workforce as a competitive advantage in attracting regional investments. This workforce positions the city well to benefit from ongoing regional reforms and economic integration efforts.
However, Treñas noted that the city expects more opportunities in the business process outsourcing industry, including potential data center investments that could further boost the local economy. These developments would create additional employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Future Regional Cooperation and Economic Integration
Looking forward, the city government anticipates stronger regional partnerships, increased investments, better opportunities for professionals, and improved competitiveness for Iloilo City as ASEAN continues to grow as an integrated economic community. Sustained regional cooperation is expected to drive further economic development and integration among member states.
The hosting of the 49th High-Level Task Force meeting placed Iloilo City at the center of high-level discussions on regional economic reforms, trade facilitation, and integration efforts within Southeast Asia. City officials believe this engagement has not only elevated Iloilo's profile in the region but also opened pathways for collaboration in tourism, digital services, and investment promotion.
Benefits for Local Stakeholders and Economic Alignment
Local industry stakeholders are expected to benefit from enhanced exposure to global platforms, particularly in tourism and online service markets, as the city strengthens its linkages with ASEAN-led initiatives. This exposure will help local businesses expand their reach and compete more effectively in international markets.
City officials have committed to continuing to align local economic programs with regional reforms to maximize opportunities arising from ASEAN cooperation and integration efforts. This strategic alignment ensures that Iloilo City remains competitive and responsive to evolving economic trends in Southeast Asia.
