U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson Highlights U.S.-Mindanao Economic Partnership at 33rd Mindanao Business Conference

General Santos City, September 12, 2024– U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Loss Carlson underscored the United States’ commitment to supporting economic growth and development in Mindanao during her speech at the 33rd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) in General Santos City.

Speaking to a distinguished audience of business leaders, government officials, and development partners, Ambassador Carlson praised the region’s potential and highlighted the U.S. government’s long-standing partnership with Mindanao. She recognized the contributions of USAID, which has provided over Php6.2 billion ($107.7 million) to key infrastructure projects, including the General Santos International Airport, General Santos Fish Port Complex, and essential road networks.

“Mindanao is a region with immense economic potential, and the United States has been a steadfast partner in your economic journey,” said Carlson.

Ambassador Carlson also emphasized the U.S.’s continued involvement in various sectors such as local economic development, youth employment, public-private partnerships, and civil society engagement. In particular, she highlighted USAID’s role in increasing collaboration between the local government and civil society organizations (CSOs) in General Santos City, with the number of accredited CSOs rising by more than 50% in the last five years.

Furthermore, she pointed to opportunities in agriculture, mining of critical minerals, renewable energy, and infrastructure, which are poised for expansion in Mindanao. The ambassador stressed that the region’s young and dynamic workforce is key to driving innovation and inclusive growth.

“Mindanao’s development is consequential, with ramifications for the Philippines, the region, and beyond,” Carlson added, expressing optimism about the future of U.S.-Mindanao partnerships and the shared goal of sustainable economic growth.

The 33rd Mindanao Business Conference, hosted by the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by Migs Dominguez, serves as a platform to foster resilient and inclusive economic growth in Mindanao.