Sen adopts resolution commending Shinzo Abe for PHL-Japan ties

The Philippine Senate has adopted Senate Resolution No. 525 to commend Japan's longest-serving Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for his significant contributions to strengthening Philippines-Japan relations.

Senator Aquilino Pimentel III highlighted Abe's attention to the strategic relationship between the two nations, which has deepened through peace-building efforts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and involvement in mechanisms like the International Monitoring Team (IMT).

Under Abe's leadership, Japan has supported the Philippines' defense security capabilities, especially in maritime security, through the transfer of defense equipment and technology such as patrol vessels and maritime patrol aircraft.

The resolution also noted the robust bilateral trade and consistent investment from Japan, which is among the Philippines' top trading partners.

Abe's historic tenure saw engagement with three Philippine presidents: Gloria Arroyo, Benigno Aquino III, and Rodrigo Duterte.

The resolution recognized the 'golden age' of Philippine-Japan relations during Abe's time in office and Japan's support for the Philippines' COVID-19 response, including emergency assistance and a loan.