Russian consul eyeing PRA partnership

CEBU, Philippines — Russian Federation honorary Consul Armie L. Garcia has expressed interest to partner with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA-Cebu) to mount programs promoting Cebu to Russian retirees.

“Cebu is a promising retirement destination for Russians,” said Garcia in an interview.

She said compared to other cities in the Philippines, Cebu has a number of advantages aside from its beaches, like hospitals, among other sophisticated facilities.

“Good thing, we have good medical facilities,” added Garcia.

Recently, PRA-Cebu Satellite Office officer-in-charge Elma Corbeta, said her office plans to reach out the wealthy Russian retirees to pick Cebu as the second home destination.

Russian active retirees are starting to show interest in acquiring permanent special visa in the country and Cebu is one of their top pick sites.

According to Corbeta, Cebu has to take advantage of the attention by the Russian retirees as their entry to stay for longer time or ultimately live here is good for the economy.

Russians are wealthy. They usually splurge on properties, food and beverage, shopping, entertainment, among others, said Corberta.

“We want to hit the rich market,” said Corbeta in an interview.

Garcia said she is open in working closely with PRA in order to maximize Cebu’s potential as second home destination for Russian active retirees. (FREEMAN)