OLONGAPO CITY — Olongapo City and Hyuga City in Japan have formalized a partnership aimed at expanding employment opportunities, strengthening educational cooperation and promoting tourism through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed on Nov. 12.

The agreement was signed at the FMA Hall of Olongapo City Hall during the visit of a Japanese delegation led by Hyuga City Mayor Satoshi Nishimura.

Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen C. Paulino Jr. led local officials in welcoming the delegation, which included representatives of Achievegoal Co. Ltd., a partner in the initiative.

The partnership covers potential cooperation in employment, educational exchanges, tourism development and other areas of mutual interest between the two cities.

Gordon College also took part in the agreement, with its president, Dr. Imelda D.P. Soriano, attending the signing ceremony. The participation of the city-run institution is expected to support academic cooperation, knowledge sharing and the development of joint programs.

Paulino, who also chairs the Gordon College Board of Trustees, represented the city alongside Nishimura.

The Olongapo City Public Employment Service Office, City Tourism Office and other local partners also participated in the activities related to the visit.

The agreement is expected to pave the way for joint initiatives that could provide employment opportunities, strengthen educational linkages and promote tourism in both cities.

Photos courtesy of Olongapo City Information Center