Davao City, February 27, 2026 – In a move that signals the city’s growing global engagement, Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Z. Duterte warmly welcomed His Excellency Harsh Kumar Jain, the Ambassador of India to the Philippines, during a courtesy meeting held today in Davao City. The visit highlighted the city’s commitment to expanding international partnerships in trade, investment, education, and tourism.
Accompanying Mayor Duterte from the City Government were key officials, including Councilor Rachel P. Zozobrado, Chairperson of the Committee on International Relations; Councilor Antoinette G. Principe, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Arts and Culture; Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz, Chairperson of the Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Industry, Tourism and Beautification; Councilor Ragde Niño Ibuyan, Chairperson of the Committee on Government Enterprises; Mr. Harvey James Lanticse, Officer-In-Charge of the City Information Office (CIO); and Ms. April Marie C. Dayap, Officer-In-Charge of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC).
The courtesy call served as an avenue to explore possible areas of collaboration between India and Davao City. Discussions focused on strengthening trade relations, attracting investment, enhancing educational exchange programs, and boosting tourism—key sectors identified as mutually beneficial for both partners.
Mayor Duterte expressed optimism that this engagement would create new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and investors, positioning Davao City as a premier hub for international cooperation in Mindanao. “The city is committed to welcoming foreign partners who share our vision for sustainable economic growth and cultural exchange,” the Mayor said.
Ambassador Jain, who is the fifth foreign envoy to visit Davao City since January 2026, lauded the city’s growing global appeal and expressed his eagerness to deepen ties with local institutions and businesses. “Our visit underscores the potential for meaningful partnerships between India and Davao City, especially in areas where we can collaborate on trade, education, and tourism,” Ambassador Jain said.
Cultural Diplomacy Highlighted at NMP-Davao
The visit also included a stop at the National Museum of the Philippines – Davao (NMP-Davao), where Ambassador Jain was welcomed by Ms. Winnie Rose G. Bulig, Supervising Administrative Officer. The Ambassador was given a guided tour of the museum’s galleries by Information Officer Fidel Akiatan, Jr., who provided insights into exhibits showcasing cultural and historical connections between India and the Davao Region.
The museum visit emphasized the role of cultural exchange in fostering mutual understanding and institutional collaboration. Ambassador Jain’s engagement, though brief, reinforced the importance of heritage as a bridge for international diplomacy.
Davao City on the Global Stage
This high-profile diplomatic visit reflects Davao City’s growing status as a global partner for international relations, trade, and tourism. The city continues to attract foreign delegations and investment opportunities, demonstrating its strategic importance not only in Mindanao but across the Philippines.
With India emerging as a key economic and cultural partner, Davao City officials are hopeful that this engagement will translate into long-term collaborations, benefiting both local communities and foreign stakeholders.
Mayor Duterte concluded, “We welcome these partnerships with open arms. Davao City remains committed to fostering a climate where international cooperation and local development go hand in hand.”