Pampanga: Several European Union (EU) ambassadors are set to return to this city for a longer stay to explore further its tourism potential, including nearby destinations Bukidnon and Camiguin provinces. In an interview on Wednesday, City Tourism Officer Marky Jalapadan stated that the planned return visit follows the successful EU delegation tour in this city and Bukidnon, which recently showcased the region's cultural, agricultural and tourism offerings.

According to Philippines News Agency, the envoys expressed strong interest in discovering more of the city and its neighboring provinces, particularly their eco-tourism sites, local products, and emerging destinations. 'Given the strong interest and positive reception from the EU envoys, there is a real possibility that the Cagayan de Oro-made chocolate brandy could be exported to Europe in the near future,' Jalapadan said, noting that most delegation members enjoyed the product during their visit.

One local product that stood out to EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro was the chocolate brandy, a specialty produced in this city. Jalapadan said the ambassador and several EU envoys praised the brandy's unique taste, noting that such a product is not available in Europe.

According to Santoro, the visit from Jan. 14 to 16 in the city and Bukidnon sought to reaffirm the EU's role as a long-term partner of the Philippines in advancing sustainable development and economic independence for the Filipino people.