Philippine Ambassador to Laos, H.E. Deena Joy Amatong, traveled to Houaphan Province from 5-8 March 2023 to meet with provincial officials and to explore opportunities in the agriculture sector.

The Ambassador called on Vice Governor Phonesouk Inthavong who talked about the “five potentials” of the province: agricultural crops, livestock, handicrafts, tourism and hydropower. As a token, the Vice Governor gave the Ambassador a woven table runner for which Houaphan is known for.

The Ambassador met with Mr. Bounphone Boudphachanh, Deputy Director of the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office, who briefed her on the agriculture potential of the province.

The Ambassador visited the coffee plantations of the Vanmai Cooperative arranged by the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime. The Ambassador also visited the historic Vieng Xai Cave Complex which served as the headquarters of the Pathet Lao from 1964-1973.