Noy says Japan visit was fruitful

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino believes his one-day visit to Japan was fruitful as he was able to discuss many possible opportunities for cooperation with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

These ranged from easing visa requirements for Filipino tourists and a subway in Metro Manila to investments in the automotive industry and in Mindanao.

Speaking upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 early yesterday morning, Aquino said his trip did not disappoint him because he was able to talk with his counterpart about many positive results of reforms and Japan’s exit from the “deflationary trap” or slowdown of a country’s economy.

A more vibrant economy for Japan means stronger sectors and industries beneficial for Filipinos, he added.

Aquino said a review will be made of the rules and regulations in the employment of foreign workers in Japan, particularly domestic workers, nurses and caregivers in strategic places.

It was happening amid challenges that Japan had to deal with in terms of population, he added.

Aquino said Abe also discussed with him Japan’s plan to improve gender empowerment.

Abe recognized Philippine contributions in this aspect and opportunities that should be open for women, he added.

Japan will also hold technical and vocational training through apprenticeship programs to help Filipino workers, he said.

Aquino said he thanked Abe for the Japanese government’s decision to relax visa requirements for Filipinos wishing to visit Japan.

Subway and other investments

Aquino said Japan promised to make detailed studies on the feasibility of a subway system in Metro Manila.

He thanked Abe for the study being conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency on improving the Philippines’ existing transport system, he added.

Aquino said reliable infrastructure would be a foundation for a strong economy.

Abe told him about the interest of Japanese companies to invest in the automotive industry and put up manufacturing plants in the country, he added.

Aquino said Abe praised the Senate’s approval of a bill seeking to allow bigger foreign ownership of Philippine banks.

Japanese investors would prefer to do business with Japanese-owned banks, he added.

Aquino said he thanked Abe for the assistance in achieving peace and development in Mindanao.

He invited Abe to attend the Philippine Development Forum in Davao in September to discuss how to improve commerce and industries, as well as tourism in the Bangsamoro region, he added.

After meeting with Abe in Tokyo, Aquino proceeded to Hiroshima to address the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference.

He renewed his commitment to bring lasting peace to the South after the signing of the peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last March.