20 November 2013 - In pursuit of improved access to and management of its water resources, the Philippines sent its first delegation in recent years to the Water Technology and Environment Control (WATEC) Exhibition and Conference held in Tel Aviv from October 22 to 24.
The high level group was received by the Embassy in a cocktail reception held on October 22 at the Chancery Rooftop. The distinguished members included Mr. Ramon B. Alikpala, Jr., Chairman of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) Board of Trustees and head of the delegation, Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) Chairman Rene C. Villa and Davao Del Sur Vice-Governor Aileen A. Uy. Other guests were Mr. Doron Hemo, the Israeli Embassy’s Director of Economic Affairs in the Philippines, Honorary Consul General Carmel Hacohen, Honorary Consul Shimon Weinbaum, Honorary Consul Boaz Waksman, Israeli businessmen and friends of the Embassy.
Ambassador Calonge congratulated the group for being the first to represent the Philippines in recent years in the international conference and stressed how their participation would significantly contribute to the country. The Ambassador also took the opportunity to highlight the strong performance and achievements of the Philippines in trade, as well as the increased business confidence in the country. Having underscored this favorable business climate, he encouraged the Israeli officials and businessmen, who were present during the reception, to increase their investments and explore new trade and business opportunities in the Philippines.
WATEC Israel is an international conference and trade show featuring the latest water technologies developed by companies worldwide. Participation in this event will afford the Philippines more access to innovative technologies and approaches to the proper use and management of its water resources, as well as efficient and cost-effective solutions to challenges faced by the country in this area. Moreover, the potential business exchanges spurred by this event will strengthen and broaden the scope of cooperation between the Philippines and other countries involved in the conference especially Israel. END