MANILA – The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines is pinning its hopes on the Philippine youth to “focus” and “persevere” to face challenges brought about by climate change.
In his remarks during the 5th Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chair Lecture Series held at the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) recently, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines ENDO Kazuya believed that the youth has the potential to “bring about greater advancement and development in your country.”
“I am heartened to see learning sessions such as the JICA Chair help young people see the importance of addressing highly relevant issues. I hope to count on our students today to develop a greater consciousness in tackling these challenges and to work tirelessly towards the development of their nations,” Endo said.
“With focus and perseverance, you have the potential to bring about greater advancement and development in your country, undeterred in the face of disasters and calamities,” the Ambassador added.
The lecture series, entitled “Japan’s Experiences and Strategies for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience”, was co-hosted by JICA and ADMU, with the aim of sharing best practices in responding to disasters brought about by climate change, and mitigating its effects, as well as strengthening resilience of communities affected by disasters.
The lecture series, entitled “Japan’s Experiences and Strategies for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience”, was co-hosted by JICA and ADMU, with the aim of sharing best practices in responding to disasters brought about by climate change, and mitigating its effects, as well as strengthening resilience of communities affected by disasters. (Photo courtesy of Embassy of Japan in the PH)
Japan is no stranger to disasters and the Japanese Government has acknowledged the “uncertainty and universality” of natural catastrophes as a growing threat globally.
“It is imperative that we identify ways to reduce their detrimental effects and continue to build on readily available knowledge to anticipate the ravages these calamities bring,” Endo stated.
“As disasters can take thousands of lives and livelihoods in their wake, the Japanese government continuously strives to advance the country’s disaster management plans,” Endo added.
Endo mentioned that Japan has realized numerous cooperations with its partner countries and organizations.
According to the Ambassador, such collaborations aim to strengthen the resilience of developing countries against disasters, and in turn, promote stable socio-economic development and human security.
“Without resilience against catastrophes, nations that have worked so hard to achieve economic growth may have it easily toppled,” Endo emphasized.
During the lecture series, Endo also expressed his deepest condolences to the victims of Typhoon Carina, and the recent Tropical Storm Enteng, as well as Japan’s commitment to “continue to support the Philippines’ attempts for disaster reduction.”
