Tokyo: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening a 'high-impact' development cooperation aimed at advancing key infrastructure and social development priorities. The commitment was made during Marcos' meeting with JICA President Dr. Tanaka Akihiko in Tokyo, as part of his official engagements during his four-day state visit to Japan.

According to Philippines News Agency, cooperation programs intended to support the Philippines' development agenda were discussed during the meeting, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said. Talks centered on JICA's continued assistance for infrastructure modernization, stronger healthcare systems, climate resilience, disaster risk management, and peace and development initiatives in Mindanao. Support for the Philippine Coast Guard and major connectivity projects was also highlighted.

The PCO said both sides agreed to further strengthen collaboration on high-impact programs that promote long-term development and inclusive growth. 'President Marcos and Dr. Tanaka also discussed ongoing and pipeline cooperation programs, including support for universal healthcare and climate action initiatives, as both sides reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable development, economic resilience, and shared prosperity,' it said.

JICA is among the Philippines major strategic development partners, collaborating with the country for more than six decades. In the Philippines, JICA supports inclusive and dynamic development anchored on three key pillars: achieving sustainable economic growth, overcoming vulnerability, and peace and development in Mindanao.