'We can really see the difference': South Korean delegation praises Kalinga's unmatched hospitality

FEATURE

"Kalinga is one of the most hospitable among all the provinces and regions we've been... we can really see the difference." — Seung-il Hong, TYM Corporation Head of Global Market Development

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Thousands of kilometers from home, a delegation from South Korea came to Kalinga to showcase agricultural machinery and innovation. But beyond the farms, technology, and business discussions, what they said they would remember most was something that could not be measured by machines—the warmth and hospitality of the iKalinga people.

During the Social Dinner hosted by the Provincial Government of Kalinga on July 28 at the Golden Berries Hotel in Tabuk City, members of the South Korean agricultural delegation expressed their appreciation for the genuine welcome they received throughout their stay in the province.

The dinner formed part of the activities for the 2026 Cordillera Mechanization Roadshow, bringing together local officials, agricultural stakeholders, and international partners in a celebration of friendship and cooperation.

For Seung-il Hong, Head of Global Market Development of TYM Corporation, the visit to Kalinga was about much more than introducing modern farm equipment.

He said TYM's vision is not simply to sell agricultural machinery but to build lasting partnerships with farming communities by investing in people, sharing knowledge, and helping farmers maximize the benefits of agricultural mechanization.

"You have very good intentions. We are also a country with a good culture and good intentions. We don't want to be just a partner with good products—we want to grow together. We invest, we train, and we share our knowledge," Hong said.

What touched him most, however, was the way the delegation was welcomed by the people of Kalinga.

"And we are talking about our friendship tonight, and we Koreans always remember these moments. The Philippines is one of our good partners. So tonight, thank you very much for everything. Kalinga is one of the most hospitable among all the provinces and regions we've been... we can really see the difference," Hong said.

His words drew warm applause from those in attendance, reflecting the pride many iKalingas take in extending sincere hospitality to their guests.

FIT Corea Trading Philippines President Philip Kim shared the same sentiment, thanking the Provincial Government and the people of Kalinga for their gracious reception. He said the delegation looks forward to building stronger ties with the province as agricultural cooperation continues to grow in the years ahead.

The gathering was attended by Provincial Legal Officer John Paul Baguiwan, Kalinga Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Atty. Chris Donaal, Apayao Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member and Committee on Agriculture Chair Rosario Labueng, along with representatives from government agencies, agricultural institutions, farmers' organizations, and other stakeholders.

For the South Korean delegation, Kalinga offered far more than breathtaking mountains and fertile fields. It offered genuine friendship, heartfelt hospitality, and a sense of community that transformed an official visit into a memorable cultural experience.

As the delegates prepare to return home, they leave not only with memories of Kalinga's rich agricultural potential but also with the kindness of its people—a welcome they said they would remember long after their journey to the Cordillera has ended.