24 August 2016 – Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines Chief Representative Mr. Susumu Ito called on Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr. on August 24.

Mr. Ito presented to Secretary Yasay an overview of JICA’s operations in the Philippines. Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) to the Philippines, through JICA, spans more than six decades, with its first assistance starting in 1954. Japan is the Philippines’ biggest ODA donor and has identified important priority areas from northern to southern Philippines.

Mr. Ito said that JICA remains committed to continue supporting infrastructure projects in the country. Apart from improvements in infrastructure, JICA’s development plans also integrate other key issues such as improving business environment, disaster resilience and poverty reduction. Mr. Ito also discussed JICA’s operation in agriculture projects, Typhoon Yolanda recovery and capacity building program for the Philippine Coast Guard.

Secretary Yasay thanked JICA for its assistance to and prioritization of the Philippines. He mentioned that the Philippines looks forward to the further strengthening of cooperation between the two countries. END