TOKYO, Japan — A delegation of Philippine senators visiting Tokyo has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Japan, placing a heavy focus on energy security, renewable energy development, and decarbonization.
During the Japan-ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Exchange on Friday, November 6, Senator Erwin Tulfo emphasized the necessity of Japanese investments and technical expertise in establishing robust and reliable energy infrastructure.
He highlighted Japan’s science-driven approach to oil and gas security through the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), noting its instrumental contributions to the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) Industrial Park—a 530-hectare hub designed for energy, logistics, and heavy industry.
“The Philippines needs Japan’s expertise in constructing and maintaining resilient energy infrastructure. We are deeply grateful for your continued reliability as a strategic partner,” Tulfo told Japanese counterparts.
Tulfo pledged that the Senate energy panel would champion legislative measures to fortify national energy resilience as the country accelerates its shift toward cleaner alternatives.
“We seek to deepen our cooperation with Japan as we accelerate our transition to clean energy. With Japan’s support, we can fully unlock the potential of the Philippine renewable energy sector,” he added.
Other members of the high-level delegation likewise acknowledged Japan’s broad developmental footprint.
Senate President Win Gatchalian expressed gratitude for Tokyo’s long-standing backing of Philippine economic growth, while Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri lauded Japan’s support for regional stability in Mindanao and national sovereignty.
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan also voiced appreciation for ongoing agricultural cooperation and technological assistance.
As part of their itinerary marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties, the delegation—headed by Gatchalian and including Senators Lito Lapid, Raffy and Erwin Tulfo, JV Ejercito and Pangilinan—met with officials from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Ejercito assured JICA that the upper chamber will secure adequate counterpart funding for agency initiatives under the 2027 national budget.
The senators also held bilateral talks with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and members of the Japan-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship League.