Marcos, Ishiba meet to boost PH-Japan economic ties

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba met in Manila to discuss strategies for addressing the economic impact of US tariffs on the global economy.

Ishiba highlighted the need to address challenges posed by reciprocal retaliations between the United States and China, emphasizing Japan's role in supporting local Philippine companies.

Marcos acknowledged Japan as a reliable partner, noting its significant contributions to the Philippines through trade, investment, and development cooperation.

The leaders emphasized the importance of the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement for broadening economic opportunities and strengthening business ties.

Ishiba outlined plans for Japanese assistance in areas such as telecommunications, energy, infrastructure, disaster risk reduction, and support for Mindanao's peace process, while vowing to help the Philippines achieve upper-middle income status.

Both leaders agreed to strengthen their partnership in various sectors, aiming to enhance economic opportunities for Filipinos.