JICA Parliamentary League holds a Roundtable Discussion with Philippine Government Officials on ODA

On 27 August 2025, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Parliamentary League, headed by its Chairperson and member of the House of Representatives Ms. OBUCHI Yuko,  held extensive discussions with senior officials from relevant Philippine government officials and agencies regarding economic cooperation projects between the two countries during their visit to the Philippines. The JICA Parliamentary League is in the Philippines to observe the progress of Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects in the country and to participate in the 60th anniversary ceremony of the JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV).  
 
The JICA Parliamentary League met with Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon; Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain; Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Undersecretary Joseph J. Capuno; Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Undersecretary  Rolando U. Toledo; and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan for a detailed discussion on ODA–related matters and to exchange views on project developments. 
 
During the meeting, members of the JICA Parliamentary League underscored the Philippines as an important strategic partner to Japan, guided by shared values and principles as the international community faces a major turning point. They highlighted the close cooperative relationship in various fields and Japan’s longstanding cooperation through ODA, which has contributed to the Philippines’ socio-economic development and resilience.  
 
In response, Philippine government officials expressed their gratitude for Japan’s extensive cooperation. They highlighted notable ongoing projects including the construction of the Davao City Bypass, Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), and North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR). They also conveyed their gratitude for the support towards the development of the Light Rail Transit (LRT), flood control projects in Metro Manila, Cavite, and other areas, and support in the maritime sector, such as the provision of patrol vessels. They noted that these projects significantly contribute to improving people’s lives and promoting regional stability, while reiterating to strengthen the cooperative relationship between Japan and the Philippines.  

The discussion also touched on the contributions of the JOCV volunteers to the community development across the Philippines through activities in diverse fields, such as education, healthcare, agriculture, environment, and rural development, among others. The Philippine side expressed their appreciation and gratitude, noting that the JOCV activities have promoted the mutual understanding between the peoples of both nations at the grassroots level. 

Japan has long been the top ODA provider to the Philippines. As the two countries approach the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations in 2026, these projects will serve as an opportunity to further deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.