Toward deepening Japan-Philippines strategic partnership

Warm greetings to the people of the Philippines. I am Ishiba Shigeru, Prime Minister of Japan, and I am truly delighted to be visiting your country.

- BY PRIME MINISTER OF JAPAN ISHIBA SHIGERU

Japan and the Philippines are bound by deep historical ties. Trade began in the 16th century, and Japanese communities established themselves in Manila. Before the Second World War, many Japanese immigrants settled mainly in Baguio and Davao, shaping local communities. Although there were difficult times in the past between Japan and the Philippines, President Quirino granted a pardon to Japanese war criminals and in 1953 declared, "I am doing this because I do not want my children and my people to inherit from me hate for people who might yet be our friends for the permanent interest of the country." This spirit of generosity greatly contributed to the normalization of diplomatic relations between our two countries. Since then, Japan and the Philippines have built trust and friendship. Today, our relationship is one that pursues peace and prosperity with a future-oriented perspective, and our cooperation is wide-ranging. Furthermore, our two countries will mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations next year.

As maritime nations bound by fundamental values and strategic interests, Japan and the Philippines are key partners who collaborate not only in bilateral relations but also on regional and global issues. Given the international community’s increasing division and confrontation, cooperation between Japan and the Philippines is more important than ever in realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific. In light of this, I hope to further develop the relationship between Japan and the Philippines, which is bound by a special bond of friendship, through this visit.