CONSUL General Shi Yong of the People’s Republic of China visited Victorias City in Negros Occidental Friday, October 27.
He was warmly received by Mayor Francis Frederick Palanca, who also represented Third District Representative Alfredo Benitez, and some city officials and department heads.
He came to explore future investments and bilateral relations.
As China and Philippines strengthen their relations, they want to bring more investments and cooperation programs to Victorias and the other areas in the province, Yong said.
In the first quarter of the year, Chinese arrivals increased by 77 percent, and they wants to increase it more.
The envoy said he wants to promote a better cooperation and exchanges for Victorias with the various regions in China.
“I will learn more about the city and act as a bridge between Victorias and the regions in China. I am also happy that coming to the Visayas is now accessible as there are eight direct flights from China to Cebu and vice versa. We want to find the appropriate investments for Victorias City,” he said.
Palanca toured Yong in some historic spots in the city, including the statue of Chinese philanthropist Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña who donated the 30 hectares of land where the current City Hall stands.
The envoy also visited Victorias Milling Company and had lunch at the Toreno farm in Barangay 9.
Palanca welcomed the visit of the Chinese consul general as they are positioning Victorias as a global city with its numerous international relations and linkages.