MANILA – The Philippines and Japan have reaffirmed their shared goal of turning the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) into a world-class economic hub, positioning it as a key driver of regional trade, investment, and supply chain resilience.
Following a summit in Tokyo on Thursday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi issued a joint statement outlining expanded cooperation on infrastructure and economic development under the LEC initiative.
The two leaders highlighted priority areas such as modern rail systems, port expansion and upgrades, clean energy projects, semiconductor and critical supply chain development, digital infrastructure, agribusiness, and modernization of civilian ports.
They described the LEC as a strategic initiative that will not only accelerate economic growth in Luzon but also enhance global supply chain stability and regional connectivity.
The Luzon Economic Corridor is a joint undertaking of the Philippines, Japan, and the United States, focusing on strengthening economic links along the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas corridor.
Both sides also emphasized the importance of cooperation with other partners, including Australia and India, in promoting a free, open, and rules-based international order.
Japan reiterated its commitment to support infrastructure development in the Philippines through high-quality Official Development Assistance, which both governments view as vital to economic transformation and resilience.
The agreement also includes deeper collaboration on economic security, particularly in building diversified and stable supply chains in industries such as renewable energy, automotive production, critical minerals, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
In addition, the two countries pledged to expand cooperation in digital connectivity, including submarine cable networks and 5G Open RAN systems, and to promote secure AI development through regional initiatives involving ASEAN.
Both sides reaffirmed existing trade frameworks, including the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, while Japan expressed support for Manila’s possible entry into the CPTPP.
Energy cooperation was also strengthened, with both countries agreeing to work together on LNG, offshore wind, and potential civilian nuclear energy development under the Asia Zero Emission Community framework.
ia/xf
