CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — More overseas job opportunities for Kagay-anons and a proposed agriculture innovation hub could soon become a reality after Taiwanese officials met with city leaders to discuss new areas of cooperation.
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines, led by Representative Ambassador Wallace Minn-Gan Chow, paid a courtesy visit to Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy on July 21 to explore partnerships that could benefit both local farmers and aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Among the key proposals presented was the establishment of an Agriculture Incubation Center in Barangay Dansolihon, envisioned to support farmers through agricultural innovation, technology transfer, climate-resilient farming, and value chain development to improve productivity and livelihoods.
For workers seeking employment abroad, TECO also discussed expanding government-to-government (G2G) recruitment between the Philippines and Taiwan, a hiring scheme designed to provide safer and more transparent overseas employment.
Taiwan also announced plans to widen opportunities for Filipino workers by expanding the eligibility of domestic helpers and opening more jobs in the hospitality industry, potentially creating additional employment options for residents of Cagayan de Oro and Northern Mindanao.
City officials said the proposed collaboration reflects efforts to attract investments that generate jobs while strengthening the city's agriculture sector.
The meeting was attended by Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus B. Rodriguez, Vice Mayor Jocelyn "Bebot" Rodriguez, Councilor Junjun Rodriguez, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)-10 Assistant Regional Director Atty. Micheal Thomas Arao, representatives from various city offices, and the Taiwanese delegation.
The city government said it remains committed to forging international partnerships that will expand employment opportunities, boost local agriculture, and support long-term economic growth for Kagay-anons. (BEN BALCE, Editorial Lead)
