Press Release

CONSUL GENERAL MEETS WITH NORTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, DISCUSSES AREAS OF MUTUAL COOPERATION

Bismarck, North Dakota – Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano met with Deputy Commissioner Katie Ralston-Howe of the North Dakota Department of Commerce to discuss areas of mutual cooperation, particularly on workforce development. Consul General Diano was joined by Consul Ella Karina Mitra and Mr. Richard Osea, while Deputy Commissioner Ralston-Howe was accompanied by Mr. Richard Garman, Director of Economic Development and Finance.

During the meeting, Consul General Diano underscored the Philippines’ leadership in healthcare-related business process outsourcing (BPO) as an innovative workplace solution. She highlighted how strategic BPO partnerships with the Philippines can deliver both scale and high-quality service for US hospitals and healthcare providers, addressing operation and staffing challenges.

The discussions also focused on North Dakota’s workforce needs, particularly in the healthcare, agriculture, and education sectors. Deputy Commissioner Ralston-Howe acknowledged the state’s ongoing labor shortages in these key areas. Consul General Diano noted the potential for Filipino professionals and workers to help fill these gaps.

Deputy Commissioner Ralston-Howe expressed optimism about working together in the future and sustaining dialogue on specific initiatives – whether in healthcare staffing, agricultural labor, or education programs.

Photo: Consul General Diano meets with Deputy Commission.er Ralston-Howe and

Mr. Richard Garman, Director of Economic Development and Finance