The Philippines and Japan are finalizing some of the projects that were halted because of the coronavirus pandemic as well as new viable projects, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday.
In an interview by reporters on board PR001, the President was asked about his expectations for his Japan visit. As a response, Marcos said Japan and the Philippines have very well-developed interactions with regard to government-to-government (G2G), or even commercial ventures.
“So, what we’re really having to do now is we are going to have to… we’re finalizing some of the projects that, for example, were postponed because of the pandemic lockdowns and also now some new projects that are follow on from kung ano ‘yung dati,” said the President, who arrived in Japan for a 5-day working visit.
“So that’s why kung titignan niyo ‘yung schedule, very specific; may purpose ang bawat meeting, hindi ‘yung general introduction of the Philippines to the EU (European Union) or to another country,” the chief executive said.
The President is visiting Japan in a bid to strengthen Manila and Tokyo’s collaboration in a wide range of areas, including agriculture, renewable energy, digital transformation, defense and infrastructure.
In his departure speech at Villamor Air Base, the President said he will be cultivating collaboration in areas “where future synergies and complementary interests converge with those of Japan.”
The working visit, scheduled on February 8 to 12, will include a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and an audience with Emperor Naruhito.
President Marcos will also be holding meetings with Japan’s business leaders to promote trade and investment opportunities in the Philippines.
Prior to flying back to Manila, the President is scheduled to meet with the Filipino community in Japan.
CurrentPH News Service
