Japan envoy reaffirms support for PH development

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya has reaffirmed Japan’s strong economic partnership with the Philippines as both nations mark the 70th anniversary of their friendship.

“Japan remains committed to supporting the Philippines’ development through effective and sustainable Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects,” Endo said in a statement on Wednesday.

“As we celebrate 70 years of friendship, this milestone provides an opportunity to further strengthen our economic partnership, reinforcing the enduring ties and shared values between our nations,” he added.

Endo recently paid a courtesy call on Department of Budget and Management Acting Secretary Rolando Toledo, during which the two exchanged views on Japan-Philippines economic cooperation, including Japan’s ODA projects in the country.

The ambassador said both sides recognized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure the smooth and timely implementation of ongoing and future ODA initiatives.

Japan remained the Philippines’ largest source of ODA in 2024, accounting for $13.23 billion, or about one-third of the country’s total ODA portfolio, based on the 2024 ODA Portfolio Review of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).—MCG, GMA Integrated News