NAIA Terminal II, Pasay City
12 December 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III left for Japan on Thursday morning to attend the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit that will be held in Tokyo from December 12 to 14.

In his speech, President Aquino said that he will personally thank the countries from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan for the aid they have given during the aftermath of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) that devastated the country last November.

“Tunay nga po, na sa panahon ng taimtim nating pangangailangan, ipinaramdam nila: Hindi tayo nag iisa. Ito po ang dibidendo ng marangal at mahusay nating pakikitungo’t pakikipag-ugnayan sa ating mga kaalyado’t kaibigan,” the President said.

During the Yolanda aftermath, the ASEAN Centre for Humanitarian Assistance extended its helping hand for the fast recovery of Eastern Visayas. Japan, however, aside from financial assistance, had sent several aircrafts, ships, and medical teams for faster relief assistance.

On the other hand, President Aquino plans to meet with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to thank the people of Japan for the continuous support the Philippines is getting. Aside from this, he will meet with the Prime Minister to tackle issues concerning peace, development and business in the region. Likewise, the President is set to meet with the Filipino community in Tokyo.

The Commemorative Summit is an annual gathering organized by Japan. It was established in 1973, where it aims to strengthen cooperation between Japan and the ASEAN countries.

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