26 January 2010- The Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia, together with Philippine Honorary Consul Carmel Hacohen, Vice Consul Greg Marie Mariño and trade, tourism and cultural Attaché Chester Omaga-Diaz traveled to Haifa to call on Deputy Mayor Hedva Almog. The meeting is a part of the Embassy's continuing efforts to promote trade and cultural cooperation. During the meeting, Ambassador Garcia emphasized the need for a more dynamic bilateral cooperation, including the city of Haifa to find many opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchanges with the Philippines.
Haifa has a Sister- City agreement with the City of Manila whereby thousands of Filipino caregivers work in the city and its neighboring municipalities. In addition, Haifa is Israel's largest seaport where Filipino seafarers spend their time off. END.