Japanese consul general vows support to peacekeeping efforts in Mindanao


Consul General Ishikawa Yoshihisa, of the Japan Consul General Office in Davao, committed to support the military’s peacekeeping initiatives in Mindanao.

Photo: Western Mindanao Command / WestMinCom

Ishikawa made the pledge when he visited the headquarters of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) at Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City on Tuesday, Jan. 31.

During his courtesy visit, Ishikawa was hosted by Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commander of WestMinCom.

“The Consul General also assured of his commitment to support the Philippine military in sustaining peace and order here in Mindanao,” said Lt. Col. Abdurasad Sirajan, WestMinCom spokesperson.

Photo: Western Mindanao Command / WestMinCom

Aside from meeting the troops, Ishikawa also visited and conducted interviews with several Japanese descendants in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Meanwhile, Galido assured Ishikawa’s security and safety during his stay in Zamboanga City, which has since been transformed into a key tourist and economic hub in Mindanao following the decrease of criminal and terrorist activities in the city.

Ishikawa has been active in boosting the capabilities not only of the military but also of other government agencies in Davao region.

Last Jan. 19, Ishikawa graced the blessing of two refurbished firetrucks which were donated by the Japan Firefighters Association to the Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte.