President Duterte has expressed his gratitude to the Japanese government for its assistance in the country's quest for progress through infrastructure development.

Duterte made the statement as he led the inauguration of the 18-kilometer portion of the Central Luzon Link Expressway (CLLEX) Project Phase I in Tarlac City on Thursday, July 15.

In his speech, President Duterte described Japan as an indispensable partner and thanked the Asian superpower for its P12-billion assistance to the CLLEX.

"Allow me, on behalf of the Filipino people, to thank the Government of Japan for helping fund the construction of CLLEX in support of our national infrastructure program," he said.

"The infusion of P12 billion by the Japan International Cooperation Agency or JICA attests to the indispensable role of Japan as one of our most important partners in attaining inclusive progress through infrastructure development," he added.

According to Duterte, the CLLEX will greatly benefit commuters going to and from Metro Manila and Cabanatuan City, saying the shorter commute will allow them to have more time for their families and other productive activities.

"This project will improve movement of goods going to and from Metro Manila and Central Luzon, which will be beneficial to entrepreneurs, consumers, and the economy," he said.

The CLLEX is seen to reduce the 70-minute travel time from Tarlac City to Cabanatuan City to just 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, the President assured the public that his administration will remain committed to providing a more comfortable life for all Filipinos.

"This assurance includes the effective, efficient, safe, and timely completion of major infrastructure- and transportation-related developments," Duterte said.