Ambassador Haneda's courtesy visit to Secretary Ernesto Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority

On February 8, Ambassador Haneda paid a courtesy visit to Secretary Ernesto Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).  Ambassador Haneda stated that he is glad to be back in the Philippines as a “Balikbayan” and to contribute to the Philippines’ “Golden Age” of Infrastructure.  Secretary Pernia stated that he cannot thank Japan enough for its development assistance toward the Philippines.  In fact, he said that Japan is the largest donor for the Philippines, accounting for almost 40% of the total Official Development Assistance (ODA) the Philippines receives. The courtesy visit was conducted in a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere.