Davao-Koror sisterhood pact eyed

KOROR, Palau — A sisterhood agreement is being eyed between Davao City and Koror, the capital of the state of Palau, which is a group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the Philippines.

"We are now laying the groundwork for the possible sisterhood relations of the two areas which would benefit each of these localities," Philippine Ambassador to Palau Ramoncito Mariño told The STAR.

Mariño said a letter of intent has already been prepared that would pave the way for the realization of the sisterhood agreement.

Koror is considered as the most important island in Palau and is the center of almost all commercial trading as well as educational and government activities in the area. Davao City, on the other hand, is the leading growth center in the southern part of the Philippines.

According to Mariño, relations between Davao City and Koror is further strengthened by the presence of Asian Spirit, a Philippine local carrier that recently launched a thrice-weekly flight between the two nations.

"Asian Spirit’s direct flights would mean more frequent and easier flow of people and goods between Davao City and Koror," he said.

One aspect of the cooperation, he added, could be in the area of medical services since Palau has only one hospital which is also currently understaffed.

"An agreement could be signed between a hospital in Davao City and the Belau Hospital in Koror so that Palauans can seek medical treatment in Davao through referrals," Mariño said.

The ambassador likewise explained that he has also been working for quarantine laws in Palau to be amended to allow the entry of agricultural products from Mindanao.

"Palau still sources its food and other supplies from abroad and hopefully those from Davao City could also enter the island nation," Mariño said.

Aside from the exchange of goods and medical services for Palauans, Mariño said a cultural as well as education exchange could also take place between Koror and Davao City. The ambassador has also been encouraging Palau businessmen to also invest in Davao City.

If plans push through, the proposed sisterhood agreement between Davao City and Koror may be forged by August in time for the state visit of ranking Palau officials to the Philippines.