Mexico wants ties with Cebu City

CEBU, Philippines — Mexico becomes the latest country to express interest in forging ties with the City of Cebu via a sister city program.

The Ambassador of Mexico to the Philippines, Gerardo Lozano Arrendondo, paid a courtesy call to Mayor Michael Rama and proposed such a partnership, the city’s Public Information Office reported.

“We share similar culture when it comes to food, textiles, and some of our practices; and this, I believe, would be a great opportunity for tourism development as well,” said Arrendondo.

The sister city program, according to Arrendondo, would entice foreign travelers to experience what Cebu has to offer.

Rama, for his part, is also very open to the idea and shows his willingness to partner with Mexico.

“You know our hospitality is incomparable and the city is more than willing to partner with you on this initiative,” Rama said.

Rama also hopes to visit Mexico after his visit to the east coast of the United States next year together with the Cebu City Sister City Commission.

“When we go there maybe we can visit Guadalajara because we have an existing sister city partnership with them as well,” Rama said.

After learning of such a plan, Arrendondo also hopes for Cebu City‘s participation in the 70th anniversary of its diplomatic relations with the Philippines.

“We will keep in touch with this because I want you also to participate in our activities. Although we are still finalizing the date and preparations, I would love it if Cebu will be there as well,” Arrendondo said.

Although nothing has been finalized yet, Rama has already given a nod to the invitation.

“Sure, sure, I will help you and I look forward to visiting you in Mexico next year,” Rama said.

Aside from forging ties with Cebu City, the Mexican ambassador is also in Cebu for the revival of their Mexican honorary consular office.

“We have long wanted to revive our honorary consular office but plans had to be postponed because of the pandemic,” Arrendondo said. — GMR (FREEMAN)