Zamboanga City – The Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Norte actively participated in the Strengthening Local Investment: ZamPen Cross Learning on LGU Inclusive Investment Promotions and Mobilization held in Zamboanga City from March 12-14, 2025. The initiative aimed to enhance local investments and contribute to poverty reduction in Region 9.
A total of thirty (30) participants took part in the three-day learning event, which was organized by the Zamboanga-Basilan Integrated Development Alliance (ZABIDA)-GIZ. The event gathered representatives from local government units (LGUs) across Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Isabela City (Basilan), and Zamboanga City to share insights and best practices in promoting inclusive investments.
According to Ms. Queenie Casimiro, Project Mobilizer for Zamboanga del Norte under ZABIDA-GIZ, the event provided an avenue to discuss updates on various development projects supported by GIZ (German Cooperation) and funded by the European Union. She expressed appreciation for the support extended by Governor Rosalina “Nanay Nene” Jalosjos, who ensured that representatives from the province actively engaged in the discussions and activities facilitated by ZABIDA.
During the event, Isabela City and Zamboanga City presented their initiatives in fostering local business growth and attracting investments. Ms. Casimiro particularly lauded the programs of LGU Isabela City, led by Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, for their efforts in advancing local enterprise development.
Among the representatives from Zamboanga del Norte were Ms. Maila Dinolan from the Provincial Planning and Development Office, Ms. Mishel Bala-Montederamos, representing Provincial Information Center Head Mr. Charles Anthony C. Rotoni, Ms. Susan Sularte Naval from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Zamboanga del Norte, Mr. Teodulo Andig from the Matam Small Coconut Farmers Association, and Mr. Rolando Puyod from the Polanco Marketing Cooperative.
The event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among LGUs in the Zamboanga Peninsula to enhance investment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and uplift local communities. Participants left the gathering with renewed commitments to implementing sustainable investment strategies in their respective areas.