Manila: The Philippines and Japan have expressed interest in advancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, human resource development, and tourism, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said on Wednesday. This development comes as President Ferdinand R. Marcos welcomed delegates from the Japan-Philippines Economic Cooperation Committee (JPECC) and the Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee, Inc. (PHILJEC) during a courtesy call at Malaca±an Palace in Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, the courtesy call was held in anticipation of the JPECC and PHILJEC's 42nd annual joint meeting in Manila. The PCO stated that both nations are seeking expanded cooperation aimed at generating more jobs and sustaining long-term growth. During the meeting, the delegates exchanged views with President Marcos on the Philippines' economic priorities, ongoing reforms, and investment pipeline, identifying concrete opportunities to expand trade, increase investments, and strengthen business partnerships.

President Marcos noted that the meeting reaffirms the strong and enduring economic partnership between the Philippines and Japan, which is anchored on shared prosperity and concrete economic results. He emphasized Japan's crucial role as a strategic partner in advancing trade, investment, and quality infrastructure collaboration. Both countries remain committed to advancing resilient supply chains, inclusive growth, and deeper regional economic integration.

Key investment opportunities for Japanese companies in the Philippines have been identified, including sectors like semiconductors and electronics, automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and the renewable energy value chain. The Philippine government has implemented strategic reforms to liberalize priority sectors and broaden foreign participation in industries critical to the country's long-term growth and development.