On August 12, 2024, the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Texas (PACCTX) paid a courtesy call to Consul General Gunther Emil Sales at the Philippine Consulate General in Houston. The meeting marked a significant step in fostering closer ties between the Philippines and the state of Texas, particularly in the realms of commerce, trade, and community development.
Upon arrival, Consul General Sales warmly welcomed the PACCTX delegation, comprising its Board Members and Officers – Aileen Ligot Dizon, Rowena Watters, Gary Ilagan, Flor Guinhawa, Bobby Reyes, Tess Tuazon, Greg Dearwater, Jaylord Palma, Tito Refi, Margarita Truong, Gemma Gullaksen, Rolf Gullaksen, Anthony Guevara, Marilyn Rogers, Ann Garcia, Nelvin Adriatico, and Rob Raroque. In a gesture of appreciation and respect, he took the time to shake hands with each member of the delegation, setting a cordial tone for the meeting.
PACCTX State President, Atty. Aileen Ligot Dizon, introduced the chamber and provided an overview of its mission, goals, and regional scope. She explained that PACCTX serves as a unifying body for five regional chambers across Texas (Greater Houston, Dallas Fort Worth Region, Greater San Antonio, Greater Austin, and Rio Grande Valley), working together to promote entrepreneurship, support small businesses, and foster economic growth among Filipino-American communities. Atty. Dizon also highlighted the chamber’s commitment to collaborating with various professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners in Texas to create opportunities for mutual benefit.
Immediate Past State President and Carrollton City Council Member, Rowena Watters, also spoke about the historical background of PACCTX. She provided insights into the chamber’s origins and its evolution over the years, emphasizing its foundational goals and achievements in advocating for the Filipino-American community in Texas.
The discussion shifted to the role of the Philippine Consulate General in Houston, with Consul General Sales emphasizing its primary objectives. He outlined four major focus areas: Agriculture, Energy, Minerals, and Cybersecurity. These sectors are crucial for enhancing bilateral trade relations between the Philippines and the United States. Consul General Sales expressed his enthusiasm for encouraging more trade missions from the U.S. to the Philippines and vice versa, which would facilitate greater economic cooperation and knowledge sharing.
Consul General Sales, in addition to discussing commercial interests, emphasized the humanitarian side of their work. Bobby Reyes, Past Region Chair and a Founding Member of the chamber, highlighted that PACCTX typically channels its humanitarian efforts through the PACC Texas Foundation. Consul General Sales further elaborated on how PACCTX and PACC Texas Foundation can support and collaborate with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (NDRRMP), especially during natural disasters or crises impacting Filipino communities.
The conversation then turned to concerns regarding J1 teachers in Texas. PACCTX Board Members mentioned their engagement with these educators and raised awareness about challenges faced by them. They noted instances where J1 teachers had become victims of abuse and trafficking, highlighting the need for better protection and support mechanisms.
Consul General Sales listened attentively to these concerns and expressed his willingness to explore ways in which PACCTX can continue to help and support the Philippine Consulate General in Houston. He recognized the value of partnership in serving Filipino communities across Texas.
Board Members and Officers of PACCTX
the Board Members and Officers of PACCTX
Throughout the meeting, both parties demonstrated a shared commitment to strengthening ties between the Philippines and Texas. By engaging in open dialogue and exploring avenues for cooperation, they set a foundation for future collaborations that will benefit businesses, individuals, and communities alike.
As the courtesy call drew to a close, Consul General Sales thanked PACCTX for their visit and expressed optimism about future partnerships. The delegation reciprocated his sentiments, reiterating their enthusiasm for ongoing collaboration.