Marking a deeper strategic partnership as both nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, Endo Kazuya on Friday underscored Japan’s long-term commitment to Philippine development as new financing agreements were signed for major infrastructure projects in Metro Manila and Mindanao.
Endo, together with Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, formalized the Exchange of Notes covering the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) Phase 1 (IV) and the Central Mindanao High Standard Highway (Cagayan de Oro–Malaybalay Section) Engineering Services, with a combined loan package of 221.672 billion yen.
In his remarks, the Japanese envoy emphasized that Japan’s Official Development Assistance goes “beyond financial support,” describing it as a cornerstone of a “strong partnership that deepens trust” between Tokyo and Manila while promoting sustainable growth and regional stability.
“Supporting the Philippines’ development is not only vital for the country itself, but also for the stability and prosperity of the wider region,” Endo said, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to sustained cooperation even as bilateral ties expand into security and other areas.
The bulk of the financing—220 billion yen—will support the continued rollout of the MMSP, the country’s first underground railway system. Endo stressed its transformative impact, noting it is expected to ease congestion across Metro Manila, reduce environmental impact, and enable faster, more efficient mobility that will stimulate economic activity and improve the quality of life for Filipinos.
Meanwhile, 1.672 billion yen has been earmarked for engineering services for the Mindanao highway project, a key component of a broader transport network linking Cagayan de Oro and Davao City.
Endo highlighted the project’s role in promoting inclusive growth, particularly in underserved areas, saying it will improve access to rural communities and strengthen regional connectivity. He added that, alongside the Davao City Bypass Project, the highway will serve as “an indispensable foundation” for Mindanao’s long-term, sustainable development.
The Japanese ambassador also placed the agreements in a broader historical and geopolitical context, noting that 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines.
“As we face increasingly complex global challenges, it is clear that we must continue to strengthen our strategic partnership,” he said, pointing to expanding cooperation not only in infrastructure but also in security, culture, and human resource development.
The financing package comes with concessional terms, including a 0.8% interest rate, a 40-year repayment period, and a 10-year grace period, under Japan’s tied loan arrangement.
Endo expressed hope that the agreements would further deepen bilateral ties, describing the signing as a catalyst for “stronger bonds” between the two nations moving forward.