The City of Silay in Negros Occidental entered into a twinning relationship with the City of Manila for various exchanges, particularly in local governance, culture, tourism, and trade.
The signing ceremony, led by Manila City Mayor Maria Sheilah Lacuna-Pangan and Silay City Mayor Joedith Gallego, was held at the Manila City Hall Sept. 15.
“We have been warmly welcomed by the city officials of Manila. This twinning agreement will greatly benefit Silay,” Gallego told the Philippine News Agency Friday.
Gallego was joined by Vice Mayor Tom Ledesma, city councilors, department heads, and village chiefs during the agreement signing.
He said Manila, being the country’s capital and one of the most established cities in the Philippines, could share ideas on how his administration could make Silay a better component city.
Both cities will exchange best practices in terms of the operations of the departments under their respective local government units.
“We will also have cultural and tourism exchanges. We are inviting them to visit Silay to see our tourism-related activities and programs,” Gallego added.
He said the first batch of four Manila city councilors is expected to visit Silay on Sept. 30.
Silay, home of the Bacolod-Silay Airport, is considered the “cultural and intellectual hub of Negros” and is known for its collection of heritage mansions and unique local delicacies. ||
