JICA vows continued support to disaster resilience, transport projects in PH

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has reaffirmed its commitment to helping the Philippines build disaster-resilient infrastructure, with flood control and disaster risk reduction as top priorities, while also advancing major transport projects such as railways.

In an interview with GMA News Online on Thursday, JICA Philippines Chief Representative Baba Takashi said the Philippines and Japan are both vulnerable to natural disasters, making cooperation not only practical but also deeply rooted in shared experience.

“The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries, and Japan faces the same kinds of difficulties. In this sense, Japan has the experience, knowledge, and expertise to handle such disasters. It is an honor for us to support the Philippines,” Baba said.

He stressed that Japan’s assistance goes beyond building physical structures like floodways and dikes. It also focuses on strengthening community preparedness and disaster awareness at the grassroots level.

“Not only the hard but also the soft—this kind of double-tracking support is a unique assistance from Japan to the Philippines,” he explained, citing JICA’s volunteer programs that provide disaster preparedness training to vulnerable communities.

Ongoing work with PH agencies

JICA is working closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for flood control infrastructure while also coordinating with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), and other agencies on disaster mitigation.

“We have continuous discussions to monitor progress and find ways to move forward much more smoothly with DPWH and other counterparts,” Baba said.

He also noted improvements in the Philippines’ flood response over the past two decades, but climate change continues to pose new challenges.

“Compared to 20 years ago, the flood situation in the Philippines is getting better. But due to environmental change, challenges remain. We will continue to support flood control because I also live in Manila. I am also an end user of these projects,” he said.

Transport remains a key focus

Baba highlighted that more than half of JICA’s projects in the Philippines are in the transportation sector, with a strong focus on railways.

“Transportation, especially the railway, is key in Metro Manila, where many people face difficulties commuting daily. 

Developing this infrastructure not only eases congestion but also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, he said, pointing to Japan’s expertise in railway development as a valuable resource for the Philippines.

“The Philippines is a very important partner for Japan. We have a strong commitment to continue supporting the country through our experience and through Japanese companies,” he added.

The Philippines and Japan will mark 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. —VBL, GMA Integrated News