
{"id":45363,"date":"2023-07-24T00:06:29","date_gmt":"2023-07-24T00:06:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/?p=45363"},"modified":"2023-07-24T07:19:15","modified_gmt":"2023-07-24T07:19:15","slug":"a-friend-closer-than-a-brother","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/a-friend-closer-than-a-brother\/","title":{"rendered":"A friend closer than a brother"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bridges<\/strong>: Tell us about JICA\u2019s history in the Philippines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45969\" width=\"250\" height=\"250\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-696x696.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-420x420.jpg 420w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-1-840x840.jpg 840w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><strong>Takema Sakamoto<\/strong>, <\/strong>Chief Representative, Japan International Cooperation Agency<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sakamoto<\/strong>: I want to begin by saying that the ties between Philippines and Japan, as the Philippine President said, is \u201ca friend closer than a brother.\u201d The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japanese government\u2019s administrative agency implementing Official Development Assistance (ODA), continues to be a trusted partner and true friend of the Philippines. The more than six decades of bilateral ties between the Philippines and Japan were, in fact, testament to our unwavering partnership and strategic relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If we go by the size, JICA remains as one of the biggest ODA partners of the Philippines, more than three times than that of the USA, the 2<sup>nd<\/sup> biggest ODA partner in 2020. &nbsp;The Philippines is one of the top recipients of Japan\u2019s ODA in the world, too. In the previous Japanese fiscal year, the Philippines has become JICA\u2019s 2nd biggest ODA recipient country in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>I strongly believe our relationship will remain UNWAVERING and SOLID even in the future. They say we\u2019ve reached the Golden Age of our partnership, and JICA will continue to be a reliable and trusted development partner and friend of the Philippines.<\/p><cite><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-white-color\"><strong><strong>Takema Sakamoto<\/strong>, <\/strong>Chief Representative, Japan International Cooperation Agency<\/mark><\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\" style=\"margin-top:-15px;margin-bottom:20px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jica.go.jp\/english\/overseas\/philippine\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45494\" width=\"100\" height=\"83\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-18.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-18-300x248.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-18-150x124.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Our more than 80 ongoing cooperation projects nationwide are anchored on three pillars: sustainable growth, human security with the concept of \u201cNo-One-Left-Behind\u201d, and Mindanao peace and development. These projects cover wide-ranging sectors and the JICA brand is without question known for the quality of its support to Philippine development. JICA provides not only tangible infrastructure development cooperation, but we also share Japan\u2019s expertise through technical cooperation. It\u2019s a balanced combination of hard and soft measures providing maximum impacts to Filipinos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the current challenges being faced by the public and private sectors in the Philippines?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45430\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-4-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">MMSP Groundbreaking Event | <strong>All photos by<\/strong>: JICA<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Each country has its development challenges. For the Philippines, it is acknowledged that the following remain challenges to be addressed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In terms of those affecting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth, what we see are challenges in infrastructure, social development, disaster fragility, inequality or disparity and Mindanao peace process among others. It is difficult to draw priorities among these challenges, but we are keen to address all aspects of Philippine development as one of its closest friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"934\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45421\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-1392x929.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-1068x713.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-2-1259x840.jpg 1259w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a clear policy under the current Marcos administration to give high priority to infrastructure. The Philippines is lagging behind other neighboring ASEAN countries in this area, so we believe, the Philippine government is on track in prioritizing this. Infrastructure is an important obstacle that must be JOINTLY TACKLED. Subsequently there would be better business environment for investments, which can ensure the sustainable growth in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45978\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-6-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sakamoto and BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Another important challenge is the improvement of the Philippines\u2019 image in the international society and market. It is crucial that the Philippines shows it can be a reliable economic partner and that the people are confident in the government. For instance, in the ability of the government to effectively manage land acquisition issues, budget appropriation, and contract undertakings, to cite a few. Streamlining the decision-making process is also important to improve efficiency in government and to boost public confidence. President Marcos already mentioned efforts like the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) which we think is key to good governance and I agree with him. Should there be vague regulations or enforcement on the ground hindering a more productive government operations and private business deployment, JICA will be happy to support the Philippines through technical cooperation and other instruments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"917\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45974\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-768x503.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-600x393.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-696x456.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-1392x912.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-1068x700.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-641x420.jpg 641w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-4-1282x840.jpg 1282w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sakamoto with BBM<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>So, basically, addressing these challenges would be a positive direction. As we always say, JICA is enthusiastic and ready to create a better future together with the Filipinos through our cooperation. This is embodied in the line we always say in JICA, <em>kasama niyo kami! (We are with you!)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What projects does JICA Philippines have planned for 2023\/2024?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>JICA has a lot of substantial projects in the Philippines. If I may exemplify some of them briefly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Metro Manila Subway Project<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"782\" data-id=\"45426\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45426\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-600x335.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-696x389.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-1392x778.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-1068x597.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-3-752x420.jpg 752w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"1050\" data-id=\"45973\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45973\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-600x450.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-696x522.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-1392x1044.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-1068x801.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-560x420.jpg 560w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-1120x840.jpg 1120w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-3-160x120.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\"><sub>October 2022. Sakamoto with PBBM, DOTR Sec, and JPN Ambassador at Subway groundbreaking.<\/sub><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The Philippines\u2019 first-ever underground subway is called the \u201cProject of the Century\u201d specifically in terms of its impacts to urban issues in transportation. Aside from easing commuting times, the subway, once completed, impact on the quality of life of many Filipinos. It is also predicted that a modal shift from current private vehicle travel to mass transit will have a tremendous positive impact on air pollution and climate change. In this context, Transit Oriented Development (TOD) will be promoted, even through JICA\u2019s new technical cooperation, both for pursuing ideal connectivity and for station area development, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-5-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">MMSP North Avenue Station Construction<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>JICA is also working on a 30-year long-term masterplan for railways in the Greater Capital Region. You see, Japan has a long history and rich experiences in developing quality transport infrastructure that is a model to the world, not just in promoting mobility but also in making transportation accessible to all social classes and boosting regional development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-6-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">May 2022. At Davao bypass tunnel<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond this, JICA is also implementing other kinds of infrastructure planning such as Metropolitan Davao Urban Development Masterplan, Davao Wastewater Management Masterplan, Cebu-Mactan 4th Bridge Construction, and Cebu Septage Management. These are partnerships with local government units (LGUs) that could enhance their growth potential and bring equitable development in the entire country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Enhancement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-7-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">DRRM Flood Improvement Project Retarding Basin in Cavite<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve witnessed gigantic economic and social costs of natural disasters, as the Philippines is described as one of the most vulnerable countries in the world. It is said that a US$ 1 preventive prior investment can reduce post-disaster reconstruction costs by US$ 15. So, for the Philippines, JICA has been strategically working with many frontline agencies in disaster management. We have the technical cooperation project for road disaster prevention and other countermeasures on mountainous roads, coastal engineering project, and flood control projects in Davao as part of the Greater Davao Masterplan. Hopefully, these projects will save more lives. JICA\u2019s flood control project in Cavite is also underway, and President Marcos acknowledged the effectiveness of this project during typhoon Paeng in 2022. In the Pasig-Marikina River basin, through series of JICA support, it is estimated that the flood damage caused by typhoon Ulysses in 2020, was eased from US$ 1.3 billion to US$ 0.2 billion, and from 1 million victims to 0.03 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Agriculture Development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45431\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-8-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">June 2022. Sakamoto at JICA supported Solsona irrigation facility, Ilocos Norte.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>JICA has been collaborating in the agriculture sector in the Philippines for more than five decades, and through JICA\u2019s many projects, such as irrigation facility development, crop productivity in the country achieved a higher rate than the average of ASEAN countries. JICA still continues to support the Philippines\u2019 efforts in this area, and also diversifies its cooperation even in the field of vegetable value chain development to revolutionize the Philippine agriculture sector. &nbsp;For the better quality of life of Filipinos, modernized food supply chain has been long awaited. In addition, income generation of farmers and job creation through the vegetable industry development, in terms of equitable growth of the country, are also the challenges to be addressed. JICA intensifies its focus in this regard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45417\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-9-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Support to PCG<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Core part of JICA\u2019s policies is promoting a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. Our cooperation with the PCG strives to realize this by a combination of hard and soft measures. Examples of this are our assistance in preparing the PCG facility in Subic for the hard measure, and then experts collaboration among Japan Coast Guard (JCG), US Coast Guard (USCG), and PCG. JICA has been supporting in development of facilities of PCG like vessels, which applied Japanese technology to achieve speed, stability, and sea-worthiness during various operations including search and rescue at maritime incidents, maritime environment protection, and delivery of emergency goods to devastated areas during natural disasters. In addition, for PCG\u2019s capacity development, JICA dispatches Japanese experts and receives many trainees in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Peace and Development in Mindanao<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45420\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-17-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">January 2023. Sakamoto with Upi Elementary School students in BARMM<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>JICA is very proactive in promoting peace and development in Mindanao, especially in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). JICA deeply recognizes the importance of BARMM\u2019s peace and development as the essential cornerstone of the prosperity of the entire Philippines. We\u2019re one of the first and the closest development partners to come to move forward together with the Bangsamoro people through our \u201cJapan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development\u201d (J-BIRD) framework. Currently, we\u2019ve been dispatching experts, such as the special advisor to the Chief Minister of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), and implementing various technical cooperation projects on the ground, such as a Comprehensive Development Project for the Bangsamoro (CDPB) to improve the lives of the Bangsamoro people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" data-id=\"45425\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-14-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"1032\" data-id=\"45970\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45970\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-300x221.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-1024x755.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-768x566.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-150x111.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-600x442.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-696x513.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-1392x1026.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-1068x787.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-570x420.jpg 570w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-1140x840.jpg 1140w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-2-80x60.jpg 80w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" data-id=\"45418\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45418\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13.jpeg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-600x400.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-696x464.jpeg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-1392x928.jpeg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-1068x712.jpeg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-630x420.jpeg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-13-1260x840.jpeg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" data-id=\"45432\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45432\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-12-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\"><sub>Sakamoto with people\u2019s organizations of Mayoyao, Ifugao.<\/sub><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Again, JICA\u2019s brand of development cooperation is exceptionally salient even in our Mindanao projects through combined hard measures (e.g. grant assistance to rehabilitate and revitalize vocational training facilities) and soft measures (e.g. vocational training of citizens including ex-combatants). JICA is also expanding its cooperation to improve public service delivery in this region through infrastructure asset management and road development and water supply projects in conflict-affected areas like Cotabato.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Public-Private Partnership<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45428\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-11-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Dec 2022. SME Waste cooking oil reused recharging station opening at Boracay.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>JICA is also keen in sharing Japanese innovations with social impact to the Philippines. JICA\u2019s partnership program with the Private Sector has been introducing new technology such as special coating materials for quake resilience, AI application in disaster management, waste recycling technology for electricity generation and compost fertilizer production, black garlic processing technology, and mulberry tea processing technology as examples. All these promote win-win partnership between JICA and the Philippines, making room for more Japanese investors to test the market here, and creating more jobs for Filipinos with unique and advanced technologies that Japanese companies transfer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"785\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45980\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-600x336.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-696x390.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-1392x781.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-1068x599.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-7-749x420.jpg 749w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">River improvement project along Cagayan de Oro River.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The above-mentioned projects are only among many other programs that we are actively working together with Filipino friends.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What have been your most enjoyable moments here in the Philippines?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I had only been in the Philippines only for a year as Chief Representative of JICA Philippine Office so far, but I am honored and glad to be given many chances to visit our project sites in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao so that I could interact with local people there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"785\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-600x336.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-696x390.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-1392x781.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-1068x599.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-15-749x420.jpg 749w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mayoyao-Japan Friendship Bridge<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most enjoyable experiences I had to date was to visit Mayoyao in Ifugao Province. They enacted a Resolution declaring me as \u201cSon of Mayoyao,\u201d and naming the JICA project as \u201cMayoyao-Japan Friendship Bridge\u201d. This is symbolic of the deep friendship and good will between Japan and the Philippines, with people welcoming and praising the impact of JICA\u2019s contributions and achievements. It\u2019s heartwarming how JICA\u2019s work is appreciated in the remote area and how JICA has made a difference in their lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"932\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45975\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-600x399.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-696x463.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-1392x927.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-1068x711.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-631x420.jpg 631w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-photo-5-1262x840.jpg 1262w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">JICA President Tanaka speech at BTA Parliament<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Second would be when JICA President TANAKA Akihiko delivered a speech at BTA Parliament in Mindanao. I was with him during the event and we were overwhelmed as to how the Bangsamoro people treats JICA as an exceptionally trusted partner and friend, even issuing a Resolution to thank JICA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">With the Philippines and Japan continuing to share strong relations, what do you think the future holds for this important relationship?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16.jpg\" class=\"td-modal-image\"><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/sms-bridges.com\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/PH23-JICA-16-1260x840.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">JDS scholars pose with Sakamoto and JPN Ambassador during the JDS 20<sup>th<\/sup> Anniversary Celebration<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I strongly believe our relationship will remain UNWAVERING and SOLID even in the future. They say we\u2019ve reached the Golden Age of our partnership, and JICA will continue to be a reliable and trusted development partner and friend of the Philippines. We also know that our relationship can still be enhanced further given the changing global context. JICA is therefore very keen to deepen our multi-layered relationship through, in addition to big ticket national flagship project cooperation, public-private partnership promotion, people-to-people exchange through our Japanese volunteers and experts, and human resource development for nation building such as our Knowledge Co-Creation Program (KCCP) and JICA scholarship programs. JICA and the Philippines will surely continue to create a better future together founded on mutual understanding and mutual respect, win-win partnership, and friendship.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jica.go.jp\/philippine\/english\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>www.jica.go.jp<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"margin-top:-15px\">RCBC Plaza Tower 2, 40th Floor, 6819 Ayala Ave, Makati, 1200 Metro Manila, Philippines<br>(P.O.Box 1026, Makati Central Post Office, Makati City, Philippines)<br>Tel: (63-2) 8889-7119<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"margin-top:-20px;margin-bottom:0px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/jicaphilippines\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><i class=\"fab fa-facebook\"><\/i><\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>JICA Chief Representative Takema Sakamoto<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":46073,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[671,292,259,765,204,264],"tags":[506],"class_list":{"0":"post-45363","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-671","8":"category-articles","9":"category-bridging-japan","10":"category-government-the-philippines","11":"category-government","12":"category-the-philippines","13":"tag-industrial"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>A friend closer than a brother - Bridges Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, 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