Mati City, Davao Oriental — April 27, 2026 — Davao Oriental rolled out a warm and meaningful welcome for a visiting Indonesian consular delegation, signaling the province’s growing role in fostering international partnerships anchored on culture, tourism, and economic cooperation.
At the center of the visit was a cultural immersion at the Subangan Museum, one of the province’s premier institutions showcasing its rich natural heritage and history. The Indonesian delegation, led by Consul General Agus Trenggono, engaged deeply with local curators and officials, expressing keen interest in the exhibits that highlight Davao Oriental’s biodiversity, indigenous cultures, and coastal ecosystems.
Joining Trenggono were key officials from the Indonesian Consulate, including Consul for Economic Affairs Marya Onny Silaban and Consul for Financial Affairs Acep Koyum Adeng Zakaria, along with representatives from various sectors. Their active participation—marked by questions and discussions—reflected a shared appreciation for cultural preservation and the potential for tourism exchange between Indonesia and the Philippines.
The visit is part of broader efforts to deepen ties between Davao Oriental and Indonesia, particularly in areas that can drive inclusive growth such as sustainable tourism, cultural exchange, and regional trade. Provincial leaders see these engagements as critical in positioning Davao Oriental as an emerging gateway for international visitors in Mindanao.
Following the museum tour, the delegation proceeded to Adelina Hotel and Suites, where the City Government of Mati hosted a strategic forum titled “From Roadshow to Roadmap: Building Mati City’s Gateway Role in Philippines–Indonesia Cooperation.” The event gathered local leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to map out concrete pathways for sustained cross-border collaboration.
Central to the discussions was the presentation of the Davao–Manado Roadshow, an initiative aimed at strengthening economic and cultural linkages between Mindanao and North Sulawesi in Indonesia. Stakeholders explored opportunities for follow-through collaboration, including tourism circuits, trade facilitation, and people-to-people exchanges.
Among those present were Vice Governor Glenda Rabat-Gayta, representing Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, Board Member Rotchie M. Ravelo, and Mati City Mayor Joel Mayo Z. Almario, along with members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Local officials emphasized that such high-level engagements are not merely ceremonial but serve as building blocks for long-term partnerships that benefit local communities. By promoting its identity through institutions like the Subangan Museum and aligning development strategies with regional cooperation frameworks, Davao Oriental is steadily carving out a place in the international arena.
The visit underscores a growing partnership between the Philippines and Indonesia—two neighboring nations with shared histories and aspirations. As Davao Oriental continues to open its doors to global partners, each exchange adds momentum to a broader vision: stronger regional connectivity, enhanced cultural understanding, and enduring cooperation across borders.