By Michelle Ducut
The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), through the Ilocos Norte Trade and Investment Promotions Office (INvest), hosted the “Ilocos Norte-Hawaii Industry Meet-up” on November 15 at the Plaza del Norte Hotel and Convention Center to foster international relations and explore economic opportunities.
The event brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, government officials, and stakeholders from Ilocos Norte and Hawaii, United States. The Hawaiian delegation was led by former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, alongside Hawaii State Senator Henry C. Aquino, Honolulu City Council Member Tyler Dos Santos-Tam, and other key officials and business leaders.
The trade mission showcased local Ilokano products and services crafted by skilled artists and entrepreneurs, highlighting the province’s cultural heritage and creativity. It served as a platform for networking and exploring partnerships in key sectors, including agriculture, tourism, environment, and renewable energy.
During his presentation, Hannemann emphasized his commitment to advocating for the return of direct flights between Hawaii and Laoag City. He also expressed interest in collaborating with Ilocos Norte to develop sports tourism and organizing trade symposiums to promote products from both Hawaii and the Philippines.
The event is a follow-up to the Tourism, Trade, and Cultural Roadshow held in Honolulu earlier this year, where Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc and Ilocos Norte officials engaged with various sectors to establish potential collaborations.