Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael “Bebo” Cueva, joined by Councilor Exequiel Marañon and Brgy. Rizal Captain Donato Marañon, welcomed members of the ` during a meeting at the Mayor’s Office on March 30, a press release from Sagay PIO said.
Cueva expressed appreciation for the group’s continued visit to Sagay, highlighting the long-standing relationship and cultural exchange between Sagaynon and Japanese youth.
“We are happy that they took time to visit Sagay City. This relationship has been long-standing, and it has greatly contributed to cultural exchange, especially among our youth,” Cueva said.
He also noted that visits between Sagay Lions and their Japanese counterparts have been a tradition, held either annually or every few years.
Cueva added that whatever the plans of the Lions for Sagay, the city will fully support them.
Masakazu Mitsuka, president of the Toyota Tomei Lions Club, shared that Sagay continues to be a valued partner, particularly in student exchange programs.
“Sagay has good students, and we are happy to continue our exchange initiatives with them,” Mitsuka said.
The Toyota Tomei Lions Club, composed of seven members, has maintained a twinning relationship with the Sagay Lions Club since 2005.
During their visit from March 27 to 30, the group conducted several activities, including a tree planting at Mt. Nabigaa in Brgy. Lopez Jaena, a visit to Marañon Beach House, and also visited the remains of the late Gov. Joseph Marañon, Gov. Alfredo Marañon, Jr., and past Lions Club presidents.
They are also set to visit Vito National High School, Museo sang Bata sang Negros, and Sagay National High School to carry out projects, including the donation of school equipment.*
