The contingent was brought first to the Philippine Pavilion, dubbed “Bangkota” –an ancient word for coral reefs, embodying the Filipinos’ more than 4,000 years of history, connectedness and resiliency.

The Department of Trade and Industry in Dubai prepared a guided walking tour for the Isabela de Basilan official delegation, zeroing in on pavilions which offer solutions and innovations for cities such as Isabela de Basilan to invest in – specifically, investments in people, infrastructure, nature, services, tourism and culture. Pavilions visited included that of Kuwait, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Spain.

The team also explored Sustainability District. As one of Expo 2020 Dubai’s three key subthemes, the Sustainability District serves as a platform to share solutions designed to drive change and encourage us to act collectively to protect our planet. One is encouraged to think about the environmental, social and economic dimensions of the places humans inhabit and how we can deliver positive change locally, regionally, and globally.

Apart from Mayor Turabin-Hataman and Representative Hataman, the Official Delegation is joined by CPDC Engr. Edgardo Halasan, CHO Dr. Mohrein Ismael VI, CCRO Dayang Mirhama Jaljalis, Tourism Chief Claudio Ramos II, CIO Mendry Ann Lim, PESO Aradelria Belleng, LEDIPO Jaime Juanito Rivera, Senior Labor and Employment Officer Ma. Leah Esturco and staff.