MANILA – The Government of Japan is committed and will continuously support railway projects in the Philippines.
This was reiterated by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines ENDO Kazuya, who attended the ceremony commemorating Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) and Hankyu Railways’ investment in the Light Rail Transit 1 (LRT-1) on Wednesday, 26 June 2024.
“This is the first investment by Hankyu Corporation and JICA in a railway operation and maintenance business overseas, and I believe it is an initiative that will support the overseas expansion of high-quality infrastructure projects by Japanese companies,” Ambassador Endo said in his remarks.
“We hope that Hankyu Corporation and JICA will use their strengths and knowledge to work with Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) and other shareholders, including Sumitomo Corporation, to further improve the comfort and safety of LRT-1,” he added.
Meanwhile, a Technical Assistance Agreement was signed after the commemoration ceremony for technical assistance on LRT-1’s operations and maintenance.
In a news release, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirms that LRMC, the private operator of LRT-1, signed an agreement with Japanese companies Sumitomo Corporation and Hankyu Corporation.
Under the agreement, Hankyu will provide technical assistance to LRMC to improve processes and personnel training, as well as take advantage of its expertise in areas such as operations and maintenance, non-fare revenue, land value capturing and urban development planning.
The signing was witnessed by DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, Ambassador Endo and officials of JICA.
(Photo courtesy of Embassy of Japan in the PH)
As for Sumitomo, reports reveal that it will transfer an undisclosed number of shares it holds in LRMC to JICA and Hankyu.
Ambassador Endo also emphasized that the LRT-1 is one of the key transport networks in Metro Manila and that opening of the extension section is expected to lead better living conditions for Filipinos.
“These improvements in the urban transportation system will not only provide the Filipino people more convenience in their everyday life, but also raise the reputation of the Philippines’ capital, Manila, in the international community and significantly contribute to the overall economic development of the Philippines,” Japan’s top envoy said.
“With today’s ceremony, I would like to emphasize that the Government of Japan will continue to support, through various ways, the development of the Philippine railway network and will continue to provide necessary support in cooperation with JICA and private companies,” Endo stated in his remarks.
