Udon Thani Official Defends 200 Million Baht PR Budget for World Horticultural Expo
Watcharapol Khaomano has defended a 200 million baht public relations budget for the upcoming World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani, citing regional development needs.
Official Defends Expo PR Budget
Watcharapol Khaomano, a representative associated with the Udon Thani region, has publicly defended the allocation of a 200 million baht budget dedicated to public relations for the upcoming World Horticultural Expo. According to a report by Matichon Online on October 27, 2026, the budget request has faced public criticism regarding its necessity and scale.
Regional Development Focus
In his response to critics, Watcharapol emphasized that the expenditure is a worthwhile investment. Speaking from his perspective as a local resident of Udon Thani, he argued that the province deserves the opportunity to develop its infrastructure and global profile through such large-scale international events. He maintained that the promotional efforts are essential to ensure the success of the expo and to maximize the long-term economic benefits for the local community.
What This Means for Residents and Visitors
The World Horticultural Expo is expected to be a significant event for Udon Thani, potentially drawing large numbers of domestic and international tourists. Residents may experience increased local activity and infrastructure improvements leading up to the event. For visitors, this suggests a concerted effort to promote the region as a major destination.
Status of the Proposal
While the official has defended the budget, the final approval process and the specific breakdown of how these funds will be utilized remain subject to ongoing public and administrative scrutiny. Further details regarding the event schedule and the impact of these promotional activities are expected to be confirmed as the expo date approaches.
