Mayor Menchaca and Council Member Wu highlight San Gabriel's Taiwan delegation visit

San Gabriel's City Council meeting on July 1, 2025, highlighted the city's recent participation in the historic 2025 World Masters Games in Taiwan, where over 25,000 athletes from 107 countries gathered. Mayor Denise Menchaca and Council Member John Wu presented a video showcasing their experiences, emphasizing the cultural exchanges and the strengthening of San Gabriel's sister city relationship with Ban Chao District.

During their visit, the council members engaged with local leaders and explored various cultural and technological initiatives in Taiwan, including sustainability projects and community programs for seniors. A significant moment was the presentation of the San Gabriel city flag at New Taipei City Hall, symbolizing the deepening ties between the two cities.

The council members extended an invitation to New Taipei's mayor to visit San Gabriel for National Night Out in August, aiming to further solidify their partnership. They also discussed the potential for San Gabriel to become a day destination for tourists during the upcoming Olympics, leveraging its proximity to Ontario Airport, which recently welcomed new Taiwanese airlines.

In addition to the cultural exchanges, the council announced a ten-year agreement with the Taiwan Tourism Administration, which includes the annual gifting of lanterns for San Gabriel's Lantern Festival. This initiative is expected to enhance cultural appreciation and attract visitors, contributing to the city's economic growth.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the importance of maintaining city infrastructure and preparing for future events, including the Olympics. The council expressed optimism about the ongoing collaboration with Taiwan and the potential benefits for San Gabriel's community and economy.