VISITING Japanese lawmakers said the Philippines is an important strategic partner to Japan as they observed the progress of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects in the country. Japan has long been the top ODA provider to the Philippines, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) office in the Philippines said. On Aug. 27, the JICA Parliamentary League (JPL), headed by Obuchi Yuko, held extensive discussions with concerned Philippine officials regarding economic cooperation projects between the two countries. The JPL delegation is also composed of Nakatani Shinichi, Suzuki Takako, Ejima Kiyoshi, Takeuchi Yuzuru, Kaneko Emi, and Sakurai Shu. They crossed partylines to support Japan's ODA. The JPL met with Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon; Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Emil Sadain; Economic, Planning, and Development Undersecretary Joseph Capuno; Budget and Management Undersecretary Rolando Toledo; and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan for a detailed discussion on ODA-related matters and to exchange views on project developments. The Japanese lawmakers highlighted 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 assistance. They highlighted notable ongoing projects, including the construction of the Davao City Bypass, Metro Manila Subway Project, and North-South Commuter Railway. They also conveyed their gratitude for the support toward the development of the Light Rail Transit, 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. 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, JICA said. The JICA Parliamentary League also participated in the 60th anniversary ceremony of the JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV). The discussion also touched on the contributions of the JOCV volunteers to community development across the Philippines through activities in diverse fields, such as education, health care, agriculture, environment and rural development, among others. The Philippine side expressed their appreciation and gratitude, noting that the JOCV activities have promoted mutual understanding between the peoples of both nations at the grassroots level.