Manila, Philippines – Former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida confirmed that the Philippines is expected to receive support under Japan’s new regional energy financing initiative.
The official said this in a press briefing on Thursday, adding that the initiative is still being finalized with allied countries, but Manila will be given priority.
The initiative is part of Japan’s 1.5 trillion yen or equivalent to 10 billion US dollars fund aimed at supporting energy and economic projects in Asia.
Specifically, the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC).
According to Kishida, discussions are currently underway on how the fund will be allocated, especially among the participating countries.
The project aims to support projects that will strengthen energy security while promoting economic growth and decarbonization in the region.
This year, 2026, the Philippines and Japan celebrate their 70th anniversary and expressed hope for further deepening cooperation.
This will also be a focus of discussion during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s scheduled visit to Japan in the coming months.
During Kishida’s courtesy visit to the Malacañang Palace, discussions focused on deepening cooperation between the two countries on energy security and clean energy transition.
Kishida is serving as the envoy of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.—Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News