The San Juan City local government signed on Friday, March 14, sisterhood agreements with the local governments of Bataan, Balanga, and Limay, as part of its efforts in expanding its strong relationship with local government units (LGUs) in the country.
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora led the city's delegation during the event held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall in Bataan. Gov. Joet Garcia of Bataan, Mayor Francis Garcia of Balanga, and Mayor Richie David of Limay signed the documents aiming at fostering cooperation in various fields, particularly in tourism promotion, trade, and local economic development.
"The agreement will benefit all signatory LGUs through several initiatives. San Juan City will actively promote the tourism destinations, local products, and investment opportunities of its sister LGUs within Metro Manila and national media platforms. The city will also feature these LGUs in its nationwide tourism roadshows, ensuring broader exposure and increased visitor engagement," Zamora said.
"To further support its sister LGUs, San Juan City will establish a National Pasalubong Center in Greenhills Mall where products from these LGUs will be displayed and sold. This center will also serve as a tourism information hub, featuring promotional materials and videos highlighting the attractions and cultural heritage of the partner LGUs," he added.
The mayor also urged San Juan employees and residents to explore its sister LGUs for team-building activities, educational tours, and leisure visits, further stimulating local tourism.
Support
Beyond tourism and trade, the sisterhood agreement also encourages collaboration in urban development, environmental protection, education, healthcare, sports, and social services, ensuring that all partner LGUs benefit from shared knowledge and best practices.
Zamora said the city government is committed to supporting local farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from its sister LGUs.
"An example of this initiative is the Producer-to-Consumer (P2C) program with the Ilocos Norte Provincial Government, where farmers and MSMEs are provided free space to sell their products in San Juan City Hall and other LGU-run bazaars. Similar opportunities will be extended to the newly partnered LGUs, helping them gain greater market access and economic opportunities," he explained.
"Through these partnerships, San Juan City reaffirms its commitment to fostering strong inter-LGU cooperation, promoting economic growth, and supporting cultural exchange and sustainable development," he added.