Philippines, Japan to ink economic deals

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos and Japan Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae will witness the signing of fresh agreements between the two countries, including trade and investment deals, during the President’s state visit to Tokyo this week.

In his departure message delivered at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay yesterday, Marcos stressed the importance of his visit to Japan – the Philippines’ first and oldest strategic partner, amid “an increasingly challenging and evolving global environment.”

“The Prime Minister and I also expect to witness the signing and exchange of important agreement in trade and investment. We will also be announcing key bilateral initiatives in security and maritime cooperation,” Marcos said.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III and Education Secretary Sonny Angara have been designated caretakers of the government while the President is out of the country.

Marcos is also scheduled to meet Japanese business leaders to promote trade and investment opportunities in the country.

Marcos was accompanied by First Lady Liza Marcos as well as members of his economic team and key private sector representatives.

The President said he would discuss with Takaichi – Japan’s first female prime minister – key global issues, including the West Philippine Sea and the Middle East crisis.

He said they would also explore ways to strengthen the two countries’ bilateral coordination and cooperation, including security and economic relations and commitment to regional, global peace and prosperity.  — Pia Lee-Brago