Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri expressed confidence that the recent visit of European Union (EU) ambassadors and senior officials to Northern Mindanao will lead to increased investments and wider economic opportunities for the region.
“This is historic for Northern Mindanao. Pinakamalaking delegation ito ng EU ambassadors at chargé d’affaires na pumunta dito,” Zubiri said, noting that the visit highlighted growing European interest in the area’s development, economy, and improving peace and security situation.
The delegation, led by EU Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro, included 14 ambassadors and two chargé d’affaires. Zubiri said the scale of the visit sent a strong message.
“Kapag ganyan karami ang pumunta, we can only see one, singular message: They want to understand the region, meet the people on the ground and see where partnerships can actually happen,” he said.
Zubiri pointed out that Northern Mindanao’s strengths in agriculture, logistics, and emerging industries naturally attract European stakeholders.
He added that the diplomats were able to directly observe these advantages during site visits and engagements. Part of the mission was to assess ongoing EU-supported projects and partnerships.
The delegation met with local government units, academic institutions such as Liceo de Cagayan, cooperatives including the Kauyagan Savers Multipurpose Cooperative, and other community groups to evaluate program implementation and explore ways to expand support.
The visit also doubled as the EU’s annual retreat and planning session, following Zubiri’s invitation for EU officials to experience Northern Mindanao firsthand.
Local partners arranged meetings with local leaders, cultural activities, and site visits.
Zubiri underscored Bukidnon’s role in the national food supply, citing Philippine Statistics Authority data showing the province’s agriculture, forestry, and fishing output reached ₱129.03 billion in 2024, or about 7.3% of the national total.
He also highlighted continued EU backing for Bukidnon’s coffee industry, with several EU-supported farms and products showcased during an exhibit at the Kaamulan Open Theater.
According to Zubiri, the delegation showed openness to expanding support to help farmers increase income, improve quality, and widen market access.
“Maraming salamat sa EU for the trust and the steady support, lalo na sa ating farmers who produce coffee na talaga namang world-class at award-winning. Malaking bagay na nandito sila mismo at nakikita nila yung ginagawa ng mga tao on the ground, at handa pa silang dagdagan ang suporta,” he said.
Beyond economic prospects, Zubiri said the visit also promoted Northern Mindanao as a tourism destination and reinforced confidence in the region’s improving peace and security.
“Pinapakita natin sa mundo na open ang Northern Mindanao sa turismo at sa opportunities, at higit sa lahat, safe at tahimik ang mga lalawigan natin,” he said.