Japan to give military equipment, jobs to Philippines

[frigidmagi]

CNN

Japan and the Philippines on Thursday (November 19) vowed to strengthen their cooperation on defense and security as both nations face a territorial spat with China.

During the bilateral meeting between the two countries, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that Japan will make a further contribution to peace and stability by providing the Coast Guard with new patrol vessels and transferring military equipment.

In a press briefing on Thursday, Japanese Press Secretary Yasuhisa Kawamura said that details on the equipment and the date of release are still under discussion.

Kawamura also could not affirm if the equipment would be in the form of a loan or donation.

Related: What's next for PH after APEC meet?

He also said that the Abe would be closely watching the developments of the arbitration case filed by the Philippines against China over the South China Sea.

Abe warned against any move that could disrupt the "status quo" over the disputed territory. He also stressed that Japan supports a peaceful settlement of the issue that is based on the rule of law.

Job creation, railway project
Kawamura also said that Japan would open its doors to domestic helpers this year.

In particular, the country would be hiring household workers for Kanagawa and Osaka prefectures.

However, Kawamura could not say how many would be hired and noted that it would depend on the demand in the two areas.

Meanwhile, the Japanese government committed 241.991 billion in yen equivalent about P93.457 billion as loan for the North-South Commuter Railway Project.

Related: Japan pledges P89 billion loan for rail project

The railway system will connect Malolos, Bulacan and Tutuban.

The project aims to strengthen the transport network and ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

During the state visit of President Benigno Aquino III in Japan last June, Abe announced that his government will cooperate constructively in the project utilizing Japanese fund and technology.

Aquino also asked for Japan's support in its bid to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
Kawamura said that the Japanese prime minister appreciates the Philippines' intent to be part of the trade agreement.

He added that Abe believes the Philippines would gain in the trade deal as it would get a high standard of growth, which will help contribute to economic stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

The TPP is a trade agreement among 12 Pacific Rim countries, concerning a variety of matters of economic policy.

The Philippines has been open about its intent to participate, but certain laws restrict it from joining.

Thanks China!

[LadyTevar]

Nothing like a big threat to make neighbors work together.