Israeli envoy wants strong ties with Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - His Excellency Menashe Bar-On, Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines, is eyeing at establishing ties with Cebu in the fields of agriculture, trade and education.

Bar-On paid a courtesy visit on Governor Gwendolyn Garcia yesterday, three months after his assumption into office and acceptance of his credentials from Philippine President Benigno Simeon Aquino III in Malacañang last August 23, 2011.

During their talk, Bar-On told Garcia of several areas in Cebu that can be explored for partnership with Israel, including farming development, exchange of educational ideas, and partnership with the business sectors.

Israel has agriculture experts who can reportedly help further develop agriculture products in the Philippines. Israel might also even consider exporting or importing agricultural products, he said.

In the aspect of education, Bar-On mentioned about possible scholarships in different fields that they might offer to Filipino students and even study grants for officials in government.

The help the Philippine government extended to Israel during the time of then President Manuel Quezon when the Jews were persecuted by the NAZIs was also recalled during the meeting. The Philippines offered refuge for Jewish refugees at that time.

Bar-On told Garcia this part of history is something that Israel will not forget and will be basis to further efforts in strengthening ties between the two countries.

Garcia visited Israel two years ago upon the invitation of then Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Zvi Aviner Vapni purposely to enhance the relationship between Cebu and Israel.

That was Garcia’s first trip to Israel since she assumed office as governor in 2004.

It was during that visit that the training for members of the Special Reaction Unit (SRU) of the Cebu Provincial Police Office by the Israeli Police was discussed. The Israeli police have a track record of efficient handling of emergency situations.

Bar-On said he will revisit the program involving the training of local police. — (FREEMAN)