Seventeen Japanese companies participated in the business matchmaking event to connect with Filipino business partners and market technologies in agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and the environment.
Hosted by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), the event featured Japanese firms offering development solutions for Philippine stakeholders.
Japanese companies presented innovative environmental solutions, including water treatment, renewable energy, and plant engineering.
In JICA’s statement on Friday, Sept. 13, Japanese companies seek to attract clients and investors while contributing to the Philippines' sustainable development through their expertise.
“This JICA scheme stimulates further business appetite of Japanese companies, as it derisks their business deployments in the Philippines,” JICA Philippines Chief Representative Takema Sakamoto said during his speech.
Sakamoto added that JICA’s support helps drive growth and job creation in the Philippines with Japanese technology and expertise.
The event facilitated networking and learning between Philippine businesses, government agencies, and Japanese counterparts, with support from high-level officials.
"I am confident that today's business partnerships will significantly contribute to the deeper ‘heart-to-heart ties' between Japan and the Philippines as well. All of you can be powerful promoters to elevate our close partnership to even new heights," Sakamoto concluded.
JICA manages Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA), including technical support, loans, grants, and disaster relief.
JICA, being the world's largest bilateral aid agency, had operations amounting to about JPY 2,745 billion (approximately ₱1,091.67 billion) for JFY 2022 and nearly 100 global offices including the Philippines.
According to JICA, the event strengthens cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, focusing on bridging economic gaps and promoting growth. (Derco Rosal)