PHILIPPINE CONSUL GENERAL ENGAGES WITH UTAH-BASED BUSINESSES TO PROMOTE ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPS
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH — In line with efforts to strengthen economic ties between the Philippines and the United States, Philippine Consul General Neil Frank Ferrer, accompanied by Consul Rowena Pangilinan-Daquipil, met with Utah-based business leaders during their official visit to Salt Lake City for the 2nd Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit held on 7–8 May 2025.
On 8 May, Consul General Ferrer held discussions with Mr. Michael Duke, Founder and CEO of DBT Aero Inc., an innovative aerospace company based in Utah. The meeting highlighted DBT Aero’s work on advanced aircraft technologies. Consul General Ferrer was encouraged by the exploratory meeting and expressed hope to be able to identify mutually beneficial areas of cooperation. “The aerospace industry is a key sector with immense potential for collaboration,” he said.
On 9 May, the Philippine officials also met with Mr. Cal Van Dyke, President of Black Dirt Organics LLC, an agricultural enterprise focused on organic soil solutions and sustainable farming practices. The meeting discussed the possible application of regenerative agriculture technologies in the Philippine context and possible partnerships to support the country’s agricultural development, particularly in enhancing soil health and increasing farm productivity.
Consul General Ferrer noted, “Our exploratory meeting with Black Dirt Organics aligns with the Philippine government’s priorities on sustainable agriculture and food security. We welcome innovative solutions that can help uplift our farmers and contribute to environmental resilience.”
These business meetings formed part of the Consulate’s economic diplomacy initiatives aimed at attracting investments, technology, and expertise to the Philippines, as well as forging partnerships that support inclusive growth and innovation. END
Consul General Ferrer (third from left) and Consul Pangilinan-Daquipil (second from left) pose with Mr. Michael Duke, Founder and CEO of DBT Aero (third from right), other diplomats, and Jessica and John McClellan of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Consul General Ferrer (center) and Consul Pangilinan-Daquipil (leftmost) pose with Mr. Carl Van Dyke, CEO and General Manager of Black Dirt Organics LLC (second from left), and Jessica and John McClellan of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (San Francisco PCG photo)