THE British government met with Davao City officials on Monday, February 17, 2025, to explore potential investment opportunities in the city.
Vice Mayor Melchor Quitain Jr. welcomed British Embassy Political Counsellor Andrew Bowes, who expressed interest in Davao City’s agricultural sector.
Bowes highlighted the UK’s willingness to collaborate through knowledge-sharing and cooperation to enhance the industry.
According to Ernst & Young (EY), the United Kingdom is the Philippines’ largest European investor, with 985 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects recorded in 2023—a six percent increase from the previous year. The UK is also a key source of European tourists to the Philippines, with around 90,000 visitors annually.
Another key aspect of Bowes’ visit was assessing Davao City’s current situation.
“They would like to understand the situation so they can issue a travel advisory similar to Japan’s, which has already issued a favorable one for Davao City,” Quitain said in an interview with a local reporter.
The British Embassy’s visit to Davao City was part of its broader initiative to engage with local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines. By meeting with government officials and key stakeholders, the embassy aims to understand local priorities and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The growing partnership between Davao City and the United Kingdom is a significant step toward strengthening ties in agriculture, investment, and tourism.
With increasing British investments and tourist arrivals, Vice Mayor Melchor Quitain Jr. believes the city is well-positioned for further economic growth and international partnerships, solidifying its role in the Philippines’ development.
In 2025, Davao City welcomed several international delegations, including officials from Hitachinaka City, Japan, and representatives from the Australian government. These visits reflect ongoing efforts to enhance diplomatic and economic relations, with both nations expressing interest in potential collaborations across various sectors. DEF