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New Zealand ambassador meets Mayor Baste Duterte in Davao, strengthens ties on trade and Indigenous development

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10 hours ago

October 27, 2026

Abi Sarabia M.

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 27, 2026

Photo courtesy: Sebastian “Baste” Duterte | Facebook

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Dr. Catherine McIntosh met with Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte on Monday, October 26, as both sides sought to strengthen cooperation in trade, education, sustainable agriculture, and Indigenous community development.

The courtesy meeting took place during McIntosh’s official visit to Davao City for the first Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Trade Expo (MIPTEX), a five-day event promoting Indigenous businesses and locally made products.

The expo runs from October 26 to 30 at Poblacion Market Central, bringing together Indigenous entrepreneurs, artisans, and organizations from across Mindanao.

Organized with the support of the New Zealand government and Philippine partner agencies, the event aims to create market opportunities while helping Indigenous communities strengthen their businesses.

It also supports the Indigenous Peoples Economic and Trade Cooperation Arrangement (IPETCA), an international initiative promoting greater economic participation and trade opportunities for Indigenous peoples.

Beyond showcasing products, the expo features activities and learning sessions on financial literacy, digital marketing, business registration, and the protection of Indigenous knowledge and intellectual property.

Around 50 exhibitors are expected to showcase traditional textiles, clothing, handicrafts, food products, and other goods reflecting Mindanao’s cultural heritage.

The event also includes weaving demonstrations, cultural presentations, and activities designed to connect Indigenous entrepreneurs with potential buyers and development partners.

During the meeting, Duterte and McIntosh reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas that could support economic opportunities and sustainable development in Davao City.

The local government also recognized New Zealand’s assistance to Indigenous communities, particularly through the Bahayahay Learning and Workshop Center for Indigenous Women in Barangay Pandaitan, Paquibato District.

The facility, officially turned over in June 2024, was funded through New Zealand Aid in partnership with the Davao City Government’s Peace 911 initiative and the local Indigenous community.

It provides Ata women with a dedicated space for training in traditional crafts, including weaving, beadwork, basket-making, and dressmaking.

The center also helps preserve Indigenous traditions by allowing community members to pass their skills and cultural knowledge to younger generations.

Aside from cultural preservation, the project supports livelihood opportunities by helping women develop and promote their handmade products.

The latest diplomatic visit builds on these existing partnerships as Davao City and New Zealand continue exploring ways to support Indigenous entrepreneurship and local economic development.