LINGAYEN – Governor Victor E. Agbayani expressed optimism that the goodwill visit to Pangasinan of Hawai’i officials led by Governor Linda Lingle on January 9 will open new development opportunities and areas of cooperation between the province and the State of Hawaii.

Agbayani said that Hawaii and Pangasinan share many similarities in terms of natural wealth and tourist attractions, culture and tradition as well as trade and commerce.

The governor is optimistic that new avenues of cooperation could be explored, particularly in the field of education, health, information technology, cultural exchanges, tourism and even investments.

Maria Luisa A. Elduayan provincial tourism officer, said Lingle and the other guests will be treated to a dinner reception dubbed as “Fiesta Pangasinense” at the Urduja Garden here, which follows a welcome concert at 7 p.m. at the Capitol Plaza to be led by American Idol finalist Jasmine Trias.

Another major feature presentation is the Mahalo Center with Tihati Polynesian Revue courtesy of the Hawaiian entourage.

A matching feature is the special performance of the University of Luzon Theatre and Dance Troupe and the equally awaited number from the famous Heart and Soulj String Quartet. One of the event highlights is the signing of a memorandum of agreement between Gov. Agbayani and the Hawaii delegates, which would kick-off a nursing exchange program.

A sunrise ceremony will also be held on the morning of Jan. 9 to commemorate the Lingayen Gul landing. (Donna F. Domagas/PIO)