Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday commended Japan's swift assistance to the Philippines during the fire at the Navotas sanitary landfill and amid global oil concerns. Speaking at a summit meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae in Tokyo, Marcos expressed appreciation for Japan's continued support for the Philippines during challenging times, underscoring the growing partnership between the two nations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos stated, "Time and again, Japan has demonstrated its steadfast support for the Philippines, particularly in periods of heightened challenges." He highlighted Japan's timely assistance with maritime developments and its concrete efforts in addressing the global energy situation, which includes ensuring a continued fuel supply and extending support for the Philippines' energy needs.

Marcos thanked Japan for the prompt deployment of technical experts to help address the fire at the Navotas sanitary landfill. He remarked that this move reflects the responsiveness and practical value of the partnership between the two countries, particularly when it is most needed. The relationship between the Philippines and Japan, according to Marcos, is built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared aspiration, having been established over seven decades.

The President's four-day state visit to Japan coincides with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Manila and Tokyo. He described his meeting with Prime Minister Takaichi as a significant step forward, as both countries aim to elevate their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking it as the Philippines' first among its partners.

Marcos noted that the partnership reflects progress achieved in key areas such as security, maritime and defense cooperation, economic partnership, and infrastructure development. He also emphasized the shared commitment to upholding international law and expanding collaboration in critical emerging areas. The cooperation between the two nations, he added, continues to broaden into new and forward-looking areas, including robotics and artificial intelligence.

Marcos expressed confidence that discussions with Japan would lead to actionable initiatives that promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.