The Adviser of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Hiroto Izumi, visited the Philippines on November 21 to discuss with the country’s Government officials on a 156 billion JPY (1.38 billion USD) aid to help upgrade transport infrastructure in Manila capital.

Streets in Manila, Philippines - Illustrative image

The loan is part of a 1 trillion JPY aid and investment package committed for the Southeast Asian nation in five years by PM Abe on the occasion of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s Japan visit in 2017.

Accordingly, Japan will help the Philippines upgrade the railway system, and build subways, a new Manila bypass road, and a new airport on Bohol tourist island.

During Duterte’s visit, the two countries’ leaders agreed to boost cooperation in various issues, including projects on upgrading the Philippines’ infrastructure and supporting its development process.

Infrastructure collaboration in the next years will focus on helping operate a subway system in Manila, intensifying connectivity through the construction of roads and bridges, and consolidating river-beds to control flood risks.

Japan also committed a maximum assistance for the reconstruction of Marawi city on Mindanao island and surrounding areas.

(Source: VNA)