NOCCI Welcomes Alameda Chamber to Strengthen Sister Chamber Alliance

The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) Officers, led by President Edward Du, together with Executive Director John Jalandoni, welcomed the delegation from the Alameda Chamber and Economic Alliance, California, USA, led by its Founding President Cynthia Bonta, during their visit to Dumaguete City.

The said visit was intended to renew the Sister Chamber Alliance between NOCCI and Alameda Chamber which aims to promote various exchanges and cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, science and technology, and culture. Also present during the welcome dinner was Negros Oriental Provincial Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling, Jr., who represented the Provincial Governor, Hon. Manuel Sagarbarria.

NOCCI and Alameda Chamber Renew Sister Chamber Alliance in Dumaguete

The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) recently hosted a delegation from the Alameda Chamber and Economic Alliance, California, USA, in a key visit aimed at revitalizing ties and expanding cooperation between the two chambers. The event, held in Dumaguete City, brought together business leaders and government officials to reaffirm the Sister Chamber Alliance between NOCCI and Alameda, fostering closer economic, trade, and cultural exchanges.

Leading the NOCCI delegation was President Edward Du, accompanied by Executive Director John Jalandoni. The Alameda Chamber delegation was headed by Founding President Cynthia Bonta, a long-time advocate of strengthening international business partnerships. The occasion also saw the participation of Negros Oriental Provincial Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling, Jr., representing Governor Manuel Sagarbarria.

Revitalizing International Trade and Economic Ties

The Sister Chamber Alliance between NOCCI and the Alameda Chamber, first established years ago, seeks to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, including economy, trade, science and technology, and culture. By renewing this alliance, both chambers aim to open new doors for business collaborations, cross-border investments, and knowledge sharing between Negros Oriental and Alameda.

NOCCI President Edward Du emphasized the importance of this renewed relationship in fostering economic growth for both regions. “This alliance between NOCCI and Alameda Chamber is crucial not only for the promotion of business opportunities but also for enhancing our cultural and technological exchanges. We are excited about the potential this partnership holds in elevating the economic standing of Negros Oriental, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, and innovation,” said Du.

Strengthening the Chamber Alliance

During the welcome dinner hosted by NOCCI, President Edward Du highlighted the importance of developing stronger international partnerships, particularly in the context of economic globalization. As the business landscape evolves, the need for collaborative efforts across borders has become more vital than ever.

Founding President Cynthia Bonta echoed Du’s sentiments, noting that Alameda Chamber is committed to supporting projects and initiatives that will benefit both regions. “We believe that the renewal of this Sister Chamber Alliance can unlock numerous opportunities for businesses and communities in both Negros Oriental and Alameda. Our chamber looks forward to identifying ways to work together, whether through trade, investments, or cultural initiatives,” Bonta shared during her address.

The Alameda Chamber and Economic Alliance, with its strong connections in the U.S. market, is well-positioned to facilitate investments and trade opportunities that can help propel Negros Oriental’s economy. Similarly, NOCCI’s active involvement in regional development makes it an ideal partner in promoting international collaborations and growing local businesses.

Opportunities for Trade, Tourism, and Technology

One of the key focus areas of the renewed Sister Chamber Alliance is promoting tourism exchanges between the two regions. Negros Oriental, with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, has long been a favorite destination for tourists. Alameda, located in the heart of California, offers opportunities for global businesses to tap into the U.S. market, making the partnership mutually beneficial.

During the visit, Negros Oriental Provincial Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling, Jr. took the opportunity to showcase the province’s top tourist destinations, including Apo Island, Manjuyod White Sandbar, and Twin Lakes. Maquiling also presented the province’s ongoing efforts to develop sustainable tourism practices and attract international visitors.

In addition to tourism, the partnership also aims to strengthen collaborations in the field of technology. NOCCI and Alameda Chamber plan to facilitate technology transfers and joint ventures that can help local businesses improve their operations and reach new markets.

Expanding Business and Investment Opportunities

The discussions during the Alameda Chamber’s visit focused on expanding business-to-business (B2B) interactions, with both chambers expressing interest in organizing trade missions and business forums. These events would serve as platforms for businesses from both sides to explore potential collaborations and partnerships.

NOCCI Executive Director John Jalandoni noted that the chamber’s primary goal is to help local businesses tap into new markets and access international investors. “We are thrilled to reignite this Sister Chamber Alliance, which will provide our members with opportunities to explore new markets, form partnerships with U.S.-based companies, and expand their business networks. The future looks bright for both NOCCI and the business community of Negros Oriental,” Jalandoni stated.

The visit of the Alameda Chamber delegation marked the beginning of a new chapter in the partnership between Negros Oriental and Alameda. Both chambers expressed optimism about the possibilities that lie ahead, from fostering business growth to promoting cultural understanding.

NOCCI remains committed to driving economic development in Negros Oriental, and the renewed alliance with Alameda Chamber is a testament to its efforts in forging global partnerships that can bring long-term benefits to the province. With plans for future exchanges already in motion, NOCCI and Alameda Chamber look forward to realizing the full potential of their collaboration.