The City Government of Davao will seize the moment in promoting the local tourism to other neighboring Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, as it is set to host for the first time a two-day visit for the delegates of the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP).
On Monday, Steve Arquiza, former National Youth Commissioner, said that the city is honored to host such delegation for the SSEAYP, despite the negative images of Davao City due to the ongoing implementation of the Martial Law.
“They decided to bring the program in Davao, because they have trust and confidence in the city,” Arquiza added, “They believe that the program will be implemented successfully because they trust the government that this will have a meaningful impact.”
He also said that the tour will give the delegates a first-hand experience of Davao’s progressiveness.
‘This is the best time to promote Davao, because these youth leaders will get to see how progressive and safe Davao is, and they will bring their experience back into their home country,” Arquiza said.
He also hoped that these would lead to the increase in tourism.
The city will host the two-day visit on November 18-19, wherein 11 Youth Leaders will be joined by the SSEAYP International Philippines from Davao Region, National Youth Commission and other local government units in the region.
The delegation is set to visit the Central 911 Emergency Response Center and the Public Safety Office.
They are also set to visit the Chocolate Museum at the Malagos Garden Resort.
Arquiza also said his thanks to the city government for the support in preparation for this event.
SSEAYP is a 53-day program based on the Joint Statement issued between Japan and the ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.
The program aims to promote friendship and mutual understanding among the youths of Japan and the 10 Southeast Asian countries.
It also aims to broaden their perspective of the International community through strengthening their practical skills and enhancing their knowledge on different social issues.
On its 45th year, the Philippines has sent 28 participating youths, including a national leader coming from different regions to join the program.
