Duterte orders formation of organizing committee for PHL participation in Expo 2020 Dubai

(Eagle News)–President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the creation of a Philippine Organizing Committee to ensure the smooth preparations for the Philippines’ participation in  Expo 2020 Dubai.

In Administrative Order No. 17, Duterte said the committee would be chaired by the secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, with the secretary of the Department of Tourism as his vice chair.

The members of the committee are the secretaries of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

According to Duterte, the POC shall “formulate and implement a work plan” which contains, among others, an “appropriate theme, concept, theme and message of the Philippines” which “will present the country as an ideal destination for trade, tourism and investments, and showcase the best of Filipino culture and heritage while adhering to the overall theme and subthemes” of the expo.

The committee shall also serve as coordinator between the private sector and other government entities, and ensure the safety of government properties, among others.

Duterte said the committee shall also submit quarterly reports of its accomplishments, not later than 30 days after the end of every quarter, and a final report within 60 days upon closing of the expo.

“This order shall take effect immediately,” he said.