Benitez was joined by Silay Mayor Mark Golez, former Rep. Alfredo “Albee” Benitez and Reena Gamboa in the meeting with Sisson and First Secretary Georgina Harley-Cavanough of the Australian Embassy at Casa Gamboa in Silay City.

They discussed potential ways to improve trade and exchange in agricultural products and other services between Negros and Australia, Benitez said.

They also discussed the pandemic responses in Australia and New Zealand, the digital transformation initiatives in the third district and in Negros Occidental, the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Australia, and Negrense and Silay food heritage and cultures, Benitez added.

Sisson, a senior career officer with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is on official visit to Bacolod City and other places in Negros Occidental this week.

He also paid separate courtesy calls on Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia.*