NEW YORK, 16 August 2026 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York and the Philippine Department of Tourism in New York hosted the Philippine Retirement Authority Promotion Event and Zamboanga City Business and Tourism Mission at the Philippine Center on 13 August 2026, bringing together initiatives to promote the Philippines as a destination for retirement, business, investment, and tourism.

In his welcome remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile highlighted the value of bringing Philippine agencies and local governments directly to the New York market to engage prospective partners and members of the Filipino-American community.

PRA General Manager and CEO Roberto Z. Zozobrado presented the Philippines as a retirement destination and discussed the programs and opportunities available to foreign nationals and former Filipinos considering making the country their retirement home.

Zamboanga City Mayor Khrymer Adan T. Olaso then presented the city’s opportunities for business and investment. The Mayor highlighted Zamboanga City’s role as an important economic center in Western Mindanao and invited prospective investors and partners to explore opportunities in the city.

Meanwhile, Zamboanga City Tourism Officer Dr. Sarita Sebastian-Hernandez, through her presentation “Zamboanga: Asia’s Latin City & Beyond,” showcased the city’s distinctive cultural identity, Chavacano heritage, cuisine, natural attractions, and diverse tourism experiences.

The presentations were followed by an open forum and networking session where the participants interacted directly with representatives of the PRA and the Zamboanga City Government.

The joint event highlighted the complementary opportunities the Philippines offers to the North American market as a retirement haven, a destination for business and investment, and a country rich in unique travel experiences.

The activity forms part of the Philippine Consulate General in New York’s continuing efforts to support Philippine government agencies and local government units in expanding economic, tourism, and people-to-people engagement with partners in the northeastern United States. END