NEIGHBORING local government units (LGUs) have already signified participation in the forthcoming Davao Trade Expo (Date) 2008, the biggest event this year, organized by the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII).
This according to Date 2008 events and program co-chair, Malou Monteverde, who said that among these provinces/cities include the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos), Province˙of Davao del Norte, Digos City, Tagum City, Kidapawan City, and Province of North Cotabato.
"North Cotabato Tourism and Investment and Promotions Officer expresses a great challenge as to how Cotabato must be showcased as a city of peace amidst the rampant undercurrent security crisis in the area," Monteverde shared during Tuesday's Business Forum at the Medispa at SM City Davao.
Monteverde added that Date is the opportune time for these local government units to also showcase their respective unique products and services. She said to date that more than 200 exhibitors have already signified their participation to the event.
Myrna Valdez, event and program chair of the Date 2008, on the other hand, said that this year, there will be no foreign-based companies who will be coming for the exhibit unlike last year where the US Embassy has joined the event.
"This year's situation is different. Because of the travel advisories, they may not be able to come. Instead, we will focus on local exhibitors. We already went around for the road show and we were happy that many LGUs showed interest to join. Also, this will be the first time where 10 companies will be joining to showcase their green initiatives," Valdez said.
The interest shown by the LGUs, Valdez said, would also fit Date's theme which goes, "Davao: Land of Great Opportunities & Endless Possibilities".
"This year, Date will also gather the four governors in Mindanao so they can offer the possible products they have in their region," Valdez said. (JGRS)
