CEBU, Philippines – A fire truck to be donated to Cebu City is set to be driven all the way from Haarlemmermeer City in the Netherlands to Cebu City in commemoration of 20 years of sister city partnership and cooperation next year.
Cebu City information officer Nagiel Bañacia, in his report to the city council on his recent travel to Europe to lead a cultural youth exchange said Haarlemmermeer Mayor Theo Weterings promised that another fire truck will be donated to Cebu City next year.
“However, the donation would be historical for some citizens of their locality are planning to drive the vehicle from Haarlemmermeer to Cebu passing through various countries in Europe and Asia,” Bañacia said.
The distance is estimated at 5,600 nautical miles.
Bañacia also said that Weterings will visit Cebu City this December to personally convey their plans and interests.
They also invited Cebu City to send a cultural delegation in October next year to perform during the grand opening of their multi-million newly built Opera House and Cultural Center.
Haarlemmermeer, since the forging of ties in 1990 with Cebu City has already extended several assistance in terms of donating equipment for peace and order as well as for well-being.
They have also donated fire trucks, hospital equipment, computers and many others.
As a result of the cultural youth exchange, Haarlemmermeer donated a rescue boat from its fire department, school furniture and hospital beds for Wonderland School in sitio Manol, barangay Tisa, which is continuously receiving funds from Vereneging Haarlemmermeer Cebu.
Bañacia said Haarlemmermeer remains committed to help Cebu City improve the delivery of health services especially to the underprivileged.
He said they are still interested to help the Cebu City Medical Center although material and financial support are still suspended due to pending plans to sell the hospital.
“I am pleased to inform you also that Haarlemmermeer reconsidered our request for 35 computer units, the desktops are now stored at the CCMC AV room, these will be distributed to all sections of the hospital,” Bañacia said.
Youth Dutch volunteers are also to be sent to CCMC for their internship programs. — Ferliza C. Contratista/BRP (THE FREEMAN)