PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has created an organizing panel for the Expo 2020 Dubai, seen as an opportunity for the Philippines to promote itself as an investment and tourist destination.
Duterte signed Administrative Order (AO) 17 on April 24, constituting the Philippine Organizing Committee (POC) for the country's participation in the Expo 2020 Dubai which will be chaired by the Trade Secretary and vice chaired by the Tourism Secretary.
Members include the secretaries of Foreign Affairs; Budget; Labor; Science and Technology; and Information and Communications Technology departments.
"The participation of the Philippines in the Expo 2020 Dubai provides and excellent opportunity to further enhance the country's presence in global scale, and promote the country's commercial and public interests in the Middle East Africa, and Southeast Asia region," AO 17 read.
"There is a need to facilitate the preparation and participation of the Philippines in the Expo 2020 Dubai through an inter-agency collaboration and coordination," it added.
The Philippines has committed to participate in the Expo 2020 Dubai, which will be held in Jebel Ali in Dubai between October 20, 2020 and April 10, 2021.
The world expo, considered the largest event in Arab countries, is an opportunity for the Philippines to "promote the heritage, talent and ingenuity of Filipino people before the world audience as well as showcase the country's vibrant economy, tourist destinations and emerging technological innovations."
Expo 2020 Dubai, with the theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future," offers a platform to foster creativity, innovation and global cooperation, which will contribute to the Philippines's goal of advancing science, technology and innovation for long-term growth.
Under AO 17, the POC is mandated to formulate and implement a work plan containing appropriate theme, concept and message which will promote the country as an ideal destination for trade, tourism and investments.
The PCO should also act as coordinating body between private sector and government entities to ensure implementation of the work plan, as well as maximize tbe benefits of the country's participation through a "concerted and cost-effective national approach."
The panel is also tasked to employ and utilize sustainable architectural design; ensure the safety and protection of goovernment properties; and accept sponsorship and gratuitous title of funds, material and devices essential for the country's participation in the Expo 2020 Dubai.
The order also directs the POC to enter into agreements necessary for the country's participation in the Expo 2020 Dubai, as well as to undertake marketing and promotional activities, presentations, and meetings necessary for the Philippines's successful participation in the event.
The funding requirements of the POC for fiscal year 2019 would be sourced from the Contingent Fund, subject to the President's approval and upon the recommendation of the Budget department.
The Palace released a copy of AO 17 on Friday, April 26. (SunStar Philippines)