June 3, 2024 — Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Ilan Fluss, paid a courtesy call to Mayor Albee Benitez at the City Mayor’s Office yesterday.

Joining Mayor Albee and Ambassador Fluss were Councilors Al Espino, Jason Villarosa, Simple Distrito, Israel Salanga, and Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEDIPO) Head Dr. Mae Frances Llamas and BTAO Head Patrick Lacson.

The discussion focused on adopting Israel’s renowned water management expertise to address Bacolod’s water security challenges.

“The water management of Israel is one of the best in the world,” Mayor Benitez noted, emphasizing the potential benefits of this partnership. “Their expertise could help in the water security plan of Bacolod.”

Ambassador Fluss shared insights into Israel’s advanced water technologies, including desalination, wastewater treatment, and drip irrigation. The ambassador highlighted Israel’s success in transforming arid regions into productive agricultural zones through innovative water solutions.

Dr. Mae Frances Llamas, representing LEDIPO, outlined the city’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign investments and technological partnerships. She emphasized that integrating Israeli water management systems could significantly boost Bacolod’s economic development and environmental sustainability.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to explore further collaboration, including potential visits by Bacolod officials to Israel to witness firsthand the successful implementation of these technologies.
(Source: Bacolod City Public Information Office)