KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--The town here opened its newly constructed Kauswagan International Organic Convention Center (KIOCC) after five months of construction by the local government.

Spanning an impressive five hectares and located right on the white sand beach, this convention center offers a scenic view of the fountain and features state-of-the-art clam shell-type venues, an administration building, a fully equipped and staffed by professional chefs cafeteria, accommodation rooms, and two helicopter pads.

The center hosts multiple noteworthy events from June 4 to 9, drawing participants and 1,200 delegates. Of these, 253 foreign participants from 31 countries and areas worldwide, such as China, South Korea, Portugal, the Maldives, and Mongolia, among others, will be represented in these gatherings, while others are from the Philippines.

The lineup includes the Organic Youth Forum, the 9th Asian Local Government for Organic Agriculture Summit, the 4th Global Alliance of Organic Districts, Women in Organic Agriculture in Asia, and the 6th Organic Asia Congress.

Municipal Mayor Rommel Arnado expressed his pride in the convention center, highlighting its significance as an exhibition of good governance.

"We spend almost P150 million; all 95% are locally financed, and for us, this is all money well spent and which is also an exhibition for good governance, and it is because of our advocacy on organic agriculture. And that's what triggered us to establish such a convention hub—to awaken other leaders to engage in the production of more food. Not just any food, but healthy food that is organic in nature," he said.

Additionally, Arnado revealed plans to utilize the convention center for various events, attracting both local and foreign tourists, thus benefiting not only Kauswagan but also neighboring cities and municipalities economically.

"It could also serve as a concert venue, capable of accommodating up to 10,000 people for concerts. This facility is not limited to conventions. It is also an economic enterprise and a strategy to generate income for the municipality," he said.

The mayor also commended the extensive security plan, a joint effort involving the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, and other agencies for the various events that will be held in the center. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)