Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. returned to the Philippines on Sunday night following a four-day working visit to Osaka, Japan, where he secured new investment commitments and launched the Philippine Pavilion for World Expo 2025. The plane carrying Marcos and his delegation landed in Manila around 6 p.m.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos described the visit as productive, highlighting new opportunities that promise to create jobs, attract investments, and improve the lives of Filipinos. During his visit, the President inaugurated the Philippine Pavilion at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, underscoring the country's dedication to innovation, culture, and sustainability. He stated that the pavilion tells the story of a nation rich in culture and driven by innovation, with a commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future.
The visit saw the announcement of significant deals, including a partnership between Kanadevia Corporation and Philippine Ecology Systems Corp. for a waste-to-energy project, and a green shipbuilding initiative by Tsuneishi Group in Cebu. This initiative will focus on constructing the world's first methanol dual-fueled KAMSARMAX bulk carrier, positioning the Philippines as a leader in clean energy and green shipping.
President Marcos also engaged with officials from the Japan Tourism Agency, Japan Association of Travel Agents, Japan-Philippines Tourism Council, Kansai Airports, and airline companies Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. The discussions aimed at enhancing tourism cooperation and creating more employment opportunities for Filipino workers.
Another significant aspect of the visit was a meeting with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency to explore collaborations in space technology. These collaborations are intended to improve disaster monitoring, agricultural support, and community safety.
The President concluded his trip by meeting with members of the Filipino community in Osaka, expressing his gratitude for their representation of the country with dignity, professionalism, and compassion, which continues to bring pride to the nation.
Marcos' visit to Japan precedes the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan in 2026. The two nations, which formally established ties in 1956, have maintained robust economic, political, and cultural partnerships over the years.