Visiting Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has promised to send to the Philippines assistance worth 1 trillion yen or equivalent to about 40-million US dollars within the next 5 years.
This is through Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) program.
Abe and President Rodrigo Duterte have just delivered their joint statements in Malacañang late Thursday afternoon.
In his speech, Abe vowed to support the Duterte administration’s campaign against illegal drugs.
The Japanese leader has also made a commitment to help in the Philippine government’s fight against terrorism.
He noted that Japan will provide to the Philippines high-speed boats for use in counter-terrorism operations.
Abe hailed Duterte’s position to seek a peaceful resolution to the South China Sea dispute with China.
Both heads of state also expressed opposition to North Korea’s missile program.
Abe also said, he backs the peace process in Mindanao.
He also plans to send aid for the flood control project in Davao City.
During his speech, Abe gave special emphasis to his high regard for Duterte.
Tonight, he is going to Duterte’s hometown.
He took pride in this trip to Duterte’s home, saying, “I am the first head of state to do so.”
Abe also said, he sees the Philippines as a very important ally and this is why he made it the first country that he is visiting this year.
After the joint statement in front of the media, Abe and Duterte headed to a meeting between Filipino and Japanese businessmen in the Palace.
A state dinner will be held for the Japanese Prime Minister, before he flies to Davao City a few hours from now.