From “Tapat Na Paglilingkod” to “Many hands. One heart”, sister cities Union City California, USA and Pasay City from the Philippines had successfully mounted its much-awaited Sister City Festival on 18th August 2023.
In a brilliant and colorful celebration of culture and heritage, ten cities have joined together to jumpstart the three day event that aims to highlight the importance of international relations and collaboration.
For the first time since its “sister city” establishment in 1989, both cities are currently led by women mayors with a shared vision of compassionate service and genuine care to its people.
The Pasay City delegation, led by Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano together with Vice Mayor Ding Del Rosario, city councilors, and leaders of the Pasay City Government, were warmly welcomed by Union City Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci and the Union City delegates.
Included in the three day event were research tours and interactions along major offices of Union City including the Union Sanitary District, Union Police Department, Chamber of Councils, and other notable offices and agencies.
“Intended to create positive change while considering each city’s respective strenghts and development points, the immersion into Union City’s mandate is poised to bring forth inspiration and learning in terms of infrastructure, waste management, economics, and local governance,” said Mayor Emi.
The lady mayor also emphasized that their visit to Union City is part of the wide-scale research and development drive of the Pasay City Government in hopes to continuously improve its services to all Pasayenyos.
“More research visits and ocular inspections are scheduled to involve other key cities in the world in line with Pasay City’s grand vision of becoming the first ever EcoCity in the Philippines that is smart, sufficient, and sustainable,” she added. ###
