By Marinel E. Peroy
The Philippines and Japan are entering a new phase in their decades-long partnership marked by deeper cooperation in infrastructure, diplomacy, and development, said Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo at the recent reception held at Hotel Okura Manila to launch the “Kaien” celebration (Japanese for “grand opening”).
The ambassador noted Japanese Prime Minister Shigeri Ishiba’s visit to Manila just last April where Tokyo’s commitment to Philippine progress was reaffirmed. His visit underscored Japan’s pivotal role as the country’s largest source of official development assistance (ODA) and a leading partner in infrastructure.
Japan’s top diplomat said his country’s high-impact infrastructure projects that promise to transform urban mobility and regional connectivity include the Metro Manila Subway, the country’s first underground rail system, and the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR)—a 147-kilometer line connecting Clark to Calamba.
“These projects represent more than concrete and steel. They are symbols of Japan’s enduring commitment to our shared prosperity,” he said.
Ambassador Endo said Japan’s support extends beyond transport, covering flood control, disaster resilience, and bridge-building in key regions—all implemented with Japan’s signature approach marked by technical precision, local employment, and sustainability.
A strategic and people-centered relationship
The ambassador said the partnership also includes growing cooperation in maritime security, digital transformation, health systems, and clean energy. He said defense and security ties are expected to deepen, with both countries committed to regional peace and a free and open Indo-Pacific.
This broadening alliance is matched by strong people-to-people ties. In 2023, over 820,000 Filipinos visited Japan, while 444,528 Japanese tourists arrived in the Philippines in 2024, contributing ₱23.7 billion to the economy.
“Our warm Filipino hospitality resonates with Japanese visitors,” said Department of Tourism–Metro Manila’s Ivanovich Agote. “In turn, Japan’s omotenashi inspires us to raise the bar in tourism and service.”
With the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations approaching in 2026, both countries are focused on building a future defined by mutual respect and shared growth.
“As we approach…this incoming milestone…we will walk neither behind nor ahead of one another, but side by side, as firm friends and unwavering partners,” said Ambassador Endo.
