Seoul Metropolitan Council Speaker Im Man-gyun met with Leody Odie F. Tarriela, a member of the Philippine House of Representatives from Occidental Mindoro province, and his delegation Friday afternoon to discuss expanding policy exchanges and friendly cooperation between the two regions.
The visit was arranged to share the Seoul council's legislative operations and urban policy experience and to strengthen the foundation for bilateral cooperation. After the meeting with Speaker Im, the delegation toured Seoul Gallery to learn about the council's history and legislative activities.
"Korea and the Philippines have maintained close exchanges over many years across various fields, including local governments and legislatures," Im said. "I hope Friday's meeting serves as an opportunity to further broaden the scope of policy exchange and cooperation between the local assemblies of our two countries."
Im also expressed strong support for Tarriela's legislative priorities, which include expanding regional healthcare services, improving infrastructure and revitalizing local economies to enhance residents' quality of life.
"Sharing Seoul's administrative and legislative experience in urban policy areas — such as smart city development, public transportation, climate and environment, and e-government — areas in which Seoul has earned international recognition — would greatly benefit the development of both regions," Tarriela said.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on areas of mutual interest, including integrated care services, education and scholarship cooperation, seasonal worker programs and the establishment of a formal exchange channel. They agreed to continue exploring practical avenues for cooperation going forward.
The Seoul Metropolitan Council has consistently maintained exchanges with local governments and legislatures in the Philippines, receiving a delegation from the Quezon City Council in February 2024 and a delegation from the governor of Quirino province in August of that year, building on the 75th anniversary of Korea-Philippines diplomatic relations in 2024.
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