A high-level delegation from Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), led by Kobayashi Takayuki, chairperson of the party’s Policy Research Council, visited the Philippines from 6 7 January to strengthen cooperation on regional security and economic issues.

The delegation included Takagi Kei, chairperson of the LDP Foreign Affairs Division; Honda Taro, chairperson of the LDP National Defense Division; and Suzuki Eikei, special adviser to the Policy Research Council chair.

During the two-day visit, the Japanese officials toured the Philippine Coast Guard and the Metro Manila Subway Project, highlighting Japan’s continuing involvement in the Philippines’ infrastructure development.

The delegation also paid courtesy calls on Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Secretary of National Defense, and Eduardo M. Año, the country’s National Security Adviser.

In addition, Kobayashi and his group held discussions with Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Secretary of Trade and Industry, as well as representatives of the Philippine business community.

Both sides reaffirmed the importance of sustaining close cooperation between Japan and the Philippines, particularly on issues affecting the regional security environment, as well as in economic and industrial collaboration.

The visit underscored the shared commitment of Manila and Tokyo to deepen bilateral ties amid evolving regional challenges in the Indo-Pacific.