
Good news
LIKE other developing countries across the globe, the Philippines lacks financial resources to pursue its socio-economic development projects.
Note that these multi-pronged and big-budgeted programs and projects are all aimed at boosting the nation’s economic growth and providing benefits to the people.
There is certainly a critical need for our valued friends in the international community, like the Japanese, to continue helping us.
Thus, it is heartening to know that transport infrastructure projects funded by Japan are expected to be sustained beyond the six-year administration of President Marcos.
Doubtless, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), headed by Secretary Jaime Bautista, needs the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
In fact, Secretary Bautista said the support of JICA to the country’s transport sector “manifests” the 67-year-old diplomatic relations between Manila and Tokyo.
We agree with Secretary Bautista when he said that the transportation department is on the forefront of sustaining the harmonious relations between the two countries.
Speaking during the 50th anniversary of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, he described the transport projects as “game changers.”
With the assistance of JICA, the country is able to pursue transport infrastructure projects, such as the North-South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway and Light Rail Transit Line 1.