MANILA — In a notable gesture affirming the strong bilateral relations between the Philippines and Japan, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has arrived in Manila for an official visit, drawing attention to the crucial role Japan plays as an ally in the region. House appropriations committee chairperson Elizaldy Co lauded Japan’s contributions to the Philippines’ economic development and geopolitical stability during a statement on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Japanese leader’s presence in the Philippines is a testament to the deep-seated friendship and cooperation between the two nations. Co underscored the numerous completed and in-progress projects supported by Japan, including those by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard in vessel operation and maritime law enforcement.
The AKO BICOL Party-list representative also highlighted the impact of nearly 97 JICA-funded projects in the Bicol Region, expressing optimism for future academic exchanges between Bicol University and Japanese educational institutions during Kishida’s visit. Echoing Co’s sentiments, Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera praised Japan as a steadfast economic partner and a balanced leader in the Western Pacific, advocating for Japan’s role in continuing projects previously abandoned by other countries.
Speaker Martin Romualdez spoke highly of the anticipated outcomes from Kishida’s visit, which include new opportunities for collaboration that would benefit both nations and contribute to global peace and prosperity. Romualdez emphasized that Kishida’s address to the Philippine Congress is eagerly awaited and represents the strong and enduring bond between the Philippines and Japan, based on mutual respect and shared aspirations for the Asia-Pacific region.
The visit by Prime Minister Kishida is set to cover a broad spectrum of significant topics, focusing on reinforcing the excellent relations between the two countries and exploring further opportunities for collaboration.