UNITED States (US) Ambassador of the Philippines Sung Kim and United States Agency for International Development (Usaid) officials were welcomed by Iloilo City Mayor Jose Espinosa III together with councilors at City Hall on April 19.
Kim said he’s glad to know that Usaid has made significant contributions to the city’s economic growth and investment.
“While traveling to City Hall, I have seen a lot of new construction sites. It only shows that there is really a great development here. I’ve only heard good things about Iloilo from some people but now that I was able to personally see this city, I agree with them. This place has more to offer. I’m hoping that this will continue with the help of Usaid,” Kim stressed.
Espinosa expressed gratitude to the US government for the support extended to the metropolis.
“Usaid has been part of every successful projects and development that our city enjoys. We will always be thankful for their help especially in education, environment, health and economy. I hope that there will be more programs that would greatly benefit our beloved city and our people,” Espinosa said.
Espinosa signed recently an executive order creating a Technical Working Group for Automation of Building and Occupancy Permitting System.
He said that strong collaboration between Usaid and City Government will be maintained for future projects.
Among the projects that were completed with Usaid assistance were:
- Iloilo River Development Master Plan
- Streamlined new registrations and renewals of business permits
- Water Security for Resilient Economic Growth and Stability (BeSECURE) - - Science and Technology, Research and Innovation for Development (Stride)
- Investment Enabling Environment (Invest)
- Iloilo Means Business Forum; Building Low Emission Alternatives to Develop Economic Resilience and Sustainability (B-Leaders)
- Strengthening Urban Resilience for Growth with Equity (Surge).
(PR)