Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2006

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on International Affairs, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 230 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this concurrent resolution is to strengthen international relations with our Pacific Ocean partners by encouraging the formation of a sister-state relationship between Hawaii and the province of Isabela in the Philippines.

The Province of Isabela Hawaii Association, Oahu Filipino Community Council, and several concerned individuals supported this concurrent resolution. The Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and University of Hawaii supported the intent of this measure.

Your Committee finds that Hawaii shares a strong bond with the Province of Isabela of the Philippines and recognizes the benefits of professional cultural and educational exchange. A sister-state relationship between Hawaii and the Province of Isabela would be a beneficial relationship.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on International Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 230 and recommends its adoption.