The Municipality of Loon proudly welcomed representatives from Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk Province, Republic of Korea, in a significant gathering that reaffirmed the strong Government-to-Government (G2G) partnership between the two local governments through the Seasonal Worker Program.
The event highlighted the shared commitment of both parties to strengthen agricultural cooperation and provide meaningful opportunities for Filipino workers. During the program, Mr. Choi Jang-hyuk, Director of the Agricultural Technology Center of Wanju-gun, expressed his gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Loon for its continued collaboration and conveyed his optimism for the continued success and expansion of the program. In response, Municipal Mayor Hon. Pedro M. Literatus, Jr. delivered an inspiring message emphasizing that the initiative goes beyond labor exchange—it is a meaningful fusion of cultures, knowledge, and shared aspirations for progress.
Mayor Literatus underscored that through the Seasonal Worker Program, Loonanon workers are given the opportunity to gain valuable international agricultural experience while proudly representing the resilience, discipline, and world-class work ethic of the Loonanon community. The Mayor also warmly welcomed the visiting delegation and invited them to experience the rich culture, heritage, and hospitality of Loon during their stay.
The program was further graced by members of the Wanju-gun Rural Manpower Support Team, namely Ms. Lee Kyoung-hee, Officer and Head of the Rural Manpower Support Team; Mr. Moon Byung-jae, Officer of the Rural Manpower Support Team; Ms. Lee SeungA, Officer of the Rural Manpower Support Team; and Ms. Kim Yeo-jin (Virginia Rigor), Contract Worker of the Rural Manpower Support Team. Their presence symbolized the deepening cooperation and friendship between the Municipality of Loon and Wanju-gun. Special recognition was also given to the interpreter, Ms. Lorna Coritico and facilitators who played an important role in bridging the language barrier, ensuring smooth communication and meaningful dialogue throughout the engagement.
Through this collaboration, seasonal workers from Loon are given opportunities to work in farms in South Korea while undergoing proper Pre-Departure Orientation and registration with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), ensuring their protection and access to welfare benefits similar to other Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The event concluded with a heartfelt message of gratitude from Hon. Kagawad Dondon Relampagos, who expressed the municipality’s appreciation to the Wanju-gun delegation for their trust and partnership with the people of Loon. He emphasized that this collaboration not only provides livelihood opportunities for Loonanons but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two communities.
The Municipality of Loon also extends its sincere appreciation to Mayor Hon. Pedro M. Literatus, Jr., the Members of the 16TH Sangguniang Bayan, and all stakeholders whose dedication and support continue to make this international initiative successful.
Together, Loon and Wanju-gun continue to build bridges of opportunity that uplift communities and demonstrate the power of global cooperation.