DTI Undersecretary Cristino L. Panlilio heads trade and investment mission to Seattle

Undersecretary Panlilio addressed the Filipino Community of Seattle and friends during the Community’s 76th Anniversary Celebration on 5 November 2011

He first met with officials of the Trade Development Alliance of Greater Settle (TDA) followed by Washington State University officials.

TDA President Sam Kaplan briefed the Undersecretary on the Alliance’s mission and programs, and how it could assist the Philippines in strengthening its trade and investment relations with the Greater Seattle Area. Among the areas highlighted were aerospace, biotechnology and the life sciences, clean technology, information technology, among others.

Washington State University (WSU) officials briefed the Undersecretary on their ongoing projects in the Philippines, such as mangrove rehabilitation in Pangasinan, reforestation in Luzon as well as agribusiness, specifically, highland fruit and vegetable production in Benguet. The meeting discussed ways of further strengthening cooperation in these areasin order to encourage more investments.

The Undersecretary also visited the Boeing Customer Experience Center and explored with Boeing officials how the company or its suppliers could locate in the Philippines. Boeing officials briefed the Undersecretary on its new technologies, which were used in making the latest Boeing 787 Dreamliner, as well as its assistance in upgrading the Philippine Category 1 status with the US Federal Aviation Authority.

Undersecretary Panlilio also had discussions with Philippine Honorary Consul in Portland, Oregon Richard Woodling and two Portland based entrepreneurs on possible ventures in electric vehicles, a green symposium and medical tourism.

While in Seattle, the Undersecretary was able to grace the 76^th Anniversary celebration of the Filipino community. During his address at the well-attended event, he paid tribute to the Filipino American community in Seattle and throughout the United States for their talents and skills as well as contribution to Philippine development. He also cited the positive developments in the Philippine economy. He lauded the noble projects of the Filipino Community of Seattle especially in ensuring the welfare of Filipinos in the area.