President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. thanked Japan for its swift assistance in responding to the weeks-long fire at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill, saying Tokyo’s support showed the practical strength of its partnership with Manila in times of crisis.
Marcos made the statement Thursday during his bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Akasaka State Guest House in Tokyo, on the third day of his State Visit to Japan.
“We also value Japan’s prompt deployment of technical experts to address the fire at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill, reflecting once again the responsiveness and practical value of our partnership when it matters most,” Marcos said in his opening remarks.
The landfill fire raised health and environmental concerns in nearby communities after thick and toxic smoke affected parts of Metro Manila and disrupted daily activities for weeks.
Japan sent a disaster relief expert team to assist Philippine authorities in containing the fire. The team provided technical guidance on firefighting operations, air quality monitoring, and waste management.
Marcos said Japan has repeatedly stood with the Philippines during difficult periods, including on maritime issues and energy security.
“Time and again, Japan has demonstrated its steadfast support for the Philippines, particularly in periods of heightened challenges,” the President said.
He also cited Japan’s assistance in ensuring continued fuel supply and supporting the country’s energy needs amid global challenges.
Marcos’ four-day State Visit to Japan has included major diplomatic and economic engagements, including an audience with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako and his address before the National Diet.
The visit also generated around $3.4 billion in investment commitments, which are expected to create more than 10,000 jobs in sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, and shipbuilding.
The trip coincides with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan.
Marcos also highlighted expanding cooperation in science and technology, noting the 10th anniversary of the launch of the Diwata-1 microsatellite from the Japanese module of the International Space Station.
“We are reminded of how our partnership has quite literally reached new heights, symbolizing our shared commitment to innovation, science, and the industries of the future, such as robotics and artificial intelligence,” Marcos said.
The two countries also marked another milestone in their relations as Marcos and Takaichi announced the elevation of Philippine-Japanese ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during their summit meeting.