Israel sees tremendous potential for expanding economic, tourism, and innovation partnerships with Cebu, according to Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh during her recent visit to the province.
The ambassador made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) on Thursday, November 20, 2025, marking her first business trip outside Manila since arriving in the Philippines three and a half months ago.
Cebu represents a crucial part of the Philippine economy, Ambassador Kursh emphasized, explaining her choice to visit the province for her initial business engagement outside the capital.
After an hour and a half of discussions with chamber representatives, the ambassador expressed even greater certainty that investing in Cebu is essential for future collaborations.
Strategic Areas for Collaboration
During the engagement, where CCCI President Jay Yuvallos presented the chamber's L.E.A.D Agenda, Kursh outlined specific sectors where Israel and Cebu could develop mutually beneficial partnerships.
Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, medical technologies, and tourism-related innovations emerged as primary focus areas, alongside sustainable solutions that align with Cebu's service-driven economy, which accounts for nearly 70% of its economic activity.
One immediate opportunity Kursh identified involves talent development and teacher training. We can bring experts to work with your teachers on artificial intelligence, innovation and future skills, she stated. This is something we can easily do together.
Reviving Trade and Exploring New Opportunities
The ambassador acknowledged that bilateral trade between Israel and the Philippines had reached approximately $500 million before declining due to global uncertainties and conflict. Her mission now focuses on revitalizing these economic flows through partnership with the Philippine business community.
Despite ongoing challenges, Israel remains committed to strengthening ties, as demonstrated by Economic Minister Nir Barkat's visit to Manila in July 2025 to advance discussions on a Philippines-Israel Free Trade Agreement with Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.
Even with war, we must look to the future, Kursh asserted. And the future is the partnership between our nations.
Beyond Technology: Agriculture, Water and Tourism
Collaboration opportunities extend beyond digital technologies to include agriculture and water management, where Israel's expertise in desalination, water harvesting, and controlled-environment farming could benefit Cebu's development.
Tourism represents another significant area for partnership, with Kursh describing Cebu as a paradise for tourists and highlighting potential for technology applications in tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) sectors.
The ambassador even raised the possibility of establishing direct Israel-Cebu flights, suggesting charter services during Passover and Easter periods. Data from the Department of Tourism indicates 7,963 Filipinos visited Israel between January and October 2025, underscoring the travel relationship between the nations.
As the Philippines prepares to host ASEAN Meetings in 2026, with Cebu as one host destination, Israel is exploring mechanisms like sister-city agreements or joint projects to deepen long-term ties.
Kursh emphasized Israel's development model, where government, private sector and academia collaborate closely, suggesting Cebu could pursue similar approaches to accelerate growth. The secret that made the desert bloom in Israel was the ecosystem working together, she noted. Cebu has that same potential.
The ambassador's visit was facilitated by the Honorary Consul of Israel to Cebu, Emily Benedicto-Chioson, signaling the importance both nations place on strengthening regional partnerships beyond Manila.
