Manila – House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez expressed optimism on Wednesday about the potential benefits of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s two-day official visit to the Philippines. Romualdez highlighted the significance of this diplomatic interaction in strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries.
According to Philippines News Agency, the visit is set to take place on Nov. 3 and Nov. 4, during which Prime Minister Kishida and his wife Yuko will meet with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and address the Special Joint Session of Congress at the House of Representatives. The Speaker emphasized that this event marks a pivotal moment in the enduring diplomatic alliance between the Philippines and Japan.
Romualdez expressed his anticipation for the discussions that are expected to open new pathways for collaboration and development, enhancing opportunities for the future of Filipinos both in the Philippines and in Japan. He stated, “It is with great anticipation that we look forward to his address to the Congress of the Republic of the Philippines.”
The Speaker underscored the commitment of the House of Representatives to ensure a fruitful and memorable visit for Prime Minister Kishida. He highlighted the wide range of critical topics expected to be covered during the visit, focusing on strengthening the excellent bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for mutual growth.
Romualdez remarked on the commitment of both nations to transform the visit into concrete collaborations, contributing to the strengthening of bilateral ties, global peace, and prosperity. He extended a heartfelt appreciation from the Filipino people to Prime Minister Kishida, wishing him a successful and impactful visit.
In addition to Speaker Romualdez’s statement, Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil outlined the agenda for the visit. Garafil announced that President Marcos would lead the welcome rites for Kishida at Malacañan Palace and engage in discussions covering political, security, economic, and development cooperation, as well as people-to-people ties. The leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and international issues and reaffirm the excellent bilateral relations established between the Philippines and Japan, elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2011.
Recalling the interactions between the leaders earlier this year, Garafil noted that President Marcos and Prime Minister Kishida met in Tokyo in February. During this visit, they signed the Terms of Reference on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief activities of the Japan Self-Defense Forces in the Philippines. This visit also led to the signing of investment pledges worth approximately USD 13 billion, expected to generate around 24,000 jobs for Filipinos. Additionally, Prime Minister Kishida committed to providing 600 billion yen in official development assistance and private-sector investment to support the Philippines’ economic development plans.