Germany is looking to deepen its partnership with Davao City on green investments and sustainable development following the first official visit of German Ambassador Andreas Pfaffernoschke, who cited the city’s livability and investment potential during a courtesy call with Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte on Thursday.
The courtesy meeting, facilitated by the Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC), highlighted opportunities for bilateral cooperation in renewable energy, sustainability, tourism, and economic development.
Making his inaugural visit to Davao City, Pfaffernoschke commended the city’s cleanliness, orderliness, and quality of life, noting that a deeper understanding of the Philippines requires engagement beyond Metro Manila.
DCIPC said the German envoy was in Davao primarily to participate in the Regional Green Investment Dialogue 2026 Forum, held at Dusit Thani Residence Davao, where German and Philippine experts, investors, and business leaders explored opportunities in renewable energy, smart grids, energy storage, and industrial decarbonization.
During the forum, Pfaffernoschke underscored the importance of green energy and sustainability in addressing the country’s growing energy needs and fostering resilient economic growth.
“Challenging times are a reason to stick together,” he said.
He also emphasized the European Union’s continued partnership with the Philippines in advancing sustainable investments.
Duterte, for his part, presented Davao City’s development priorities, highlighting its growing tourism industry while discussing ongoing initiatives to strengthen the education sector and establish a dedicated housing department to address the city’s expanding urban needs.
DCIPC added that the meeting also explored areas where German expertise and investments could complement Davao City’s long-term development agenda, particularly in sustainable infrastructure and environmental initiatives.
