(Eagle News) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday thanked Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for expressing his commitment to “giv(ing) flesh” to Japan’s one trillion yen pledge of assistance to the Philippines.
“Apart from its involvement in the peace process, Japan is already on the ground as we proceed with reconstructing Marawi and rebuilding the lives of those affected,” President Duterte said in a joint statement.
He added “there will be some of the most ambitious and groundbreaking projects, including the Metro Manila Subway project, and major developments in the regions and provinces.”
Japan also promised to give patrol and speed boats for use by the Philippine Coast Guard.
Duterte called Japan “a true friend who has stood squarely behind the Philippines in my country’s onward advance [to] greater peace, progress and prosperity,” noting that it was therefore “fitting and proper that after the liberation of Marawi City from the grip of Maute terrorists,” his first official visit overseas takes place there.
Abe was the first foreign leader to visit the Philippines after Duterte assumed the presidency.
“I dare say that, considering what we have accomplished and achieved, the Philippines and Japan are building a golden age [for] our strategic partnership,” Duterte said.