HIMAMAYLAN Mayor Raymund Tongson disclosed plans to establish a sister city relationship with Manila.

In a recent letter to Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko" Domagoso, Tongson expressed interest to forge a sister city agreement that will promote mutual benefits to both local governments, maximize partnership and networks and explore opportunities, including investments, that will sustain economic growth, generate jobs and become more competitive.

Himamaylan also has an existing sister city relationship with Tayasan in Negros Oriental that is up for renewal in December 2020.

Tongson told the top city executive of Manila that Himamaylan is a third-class component city of Negros Occidental that has been steadfast in pursuing programs geared towards boosting sustainable growth to highlight the resilience of its people even in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"The sisterhood is a vital step in realizing our goal of bridging communities with diverse socio-cultural backgrounds," Tongson said.

Calling Manila an "inspiring" city, the mayor also said he hopes that the sister city relationship between Himamaylan and Manila "will help us in growing a strong community by pushing for a shared emphasis on good and transparent governance."