PHILJEC, JPECC Welcome Guests to 36th Joint Meeting with Focus on “Build, Build, Build”

March 24, 2018by Philip Sanvictores in PHILJEC

Members of Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee, Inc. (PHILJEC) and its counterpart, Japan-Philippines Economic Cooperation Committee (JPECC) convened last February 22, 2018 for their 36th joint meeting held at the New World Hotel in Makati City. This year’s meeting focused on the theme “Build, Build, Build: The Duterte Administration’s Infrastructure Plan for Sustainable Growth” and had top-level diplomats, representatives from the Japanese business community, and Filipino industry leaders as speakers and attendees.

PHILJEC and JPECC Chairmen Atty. Aniceto G. Saludo, Jr. and Mr. Teruo Asada respectively welcomed the participants with their opening remarks, both stating that the two countries are in a “Golden Age of Partnership”. In their speeches, the two chairmen emphasized the much-needed infrastructure projects such as the first major subway in Metro Manila and other railway projects in South and North Luzon and how the cooperation and strong political will in completing these projects will surely sustain Philippine economic growth and revitalize Japan’s economy as well.

Philippine Ambassador to Japan, Jose C. Laurel V, read the congratulatory message from President Rodrigo Duterte, while Ambassador Koji Haneda read that of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Excerpt from President Duterte’s Message:

Japan has been among our country’s largest investors and trading partners while Philippine companies and workers have likewise contributed to the dynamism and vibrancy of the Japanese economy.

I look forward to this joint meeting, as it will not only have the potential of expanding cooperation to other emerging sectors, but will also serve as a lynchpin for greater stability and peace within our region (read full message).

Excerpt from Prime Minister Abe’s Message:

Top-level diplomatic and bilateral Japan-Philippines relations have never been as close and vibrant as they are today.  I sincerely welcome the development of various infrastructure facilities in the Philippines through the “Build, Build, Build” policy spearheaded by the Duterte Administration. Japan will continue to contribute vigorously towards the improvement of Philippine infrastructure in order to boost it up to even higher.

I congratulate PHILJEC and JPECC for holding today’s meeting and hope that you will have a most fruitful and productive conference leading to even deeper Japan-Philippines economic relations (read full message).

Also present to give the keynote address was National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Ernesto Pernia and Special Guest Speaker, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade who entertained questions regarding the implementation of the “Build, Build, Build” Program.

For this year’s meeting, two plenary sessions were held featuring presentations from significant players in the infrastructure projects. BDO Capital and Investment Corporation President, Mr. Eduardo V. Francisco and JICA Philippines Chief Representative, Mr. Susumu Ito discussed the financial aspects in the first plenary session. This included details about funding sources both from Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) and from the local private sector.

In the second plenary session, presentations from various corporations and their participation in the ““Build, Build, Build” Program were presented. Speakers included CEOs, General Managers, and Chairmen from multinational companies in both the construction and transportation industries:

  • Mr. ROBERTO JOSE L. CASTILLO, President and CEO, EEI Corporation
  • Mr. MITSUHIKO SHIMIZU, General Manager, Hitachi Asia Ltd. Philippine Branch
  • Mr. SATOSHI KATO, President, Chodai Philippines Corporation
  • Mr. MASARU ONISHI, Chairman, Director, Japan Airlines
  • Mr. MANUEL V. PANGILINAN, Chairman, Metro Pacific Group

To view all related presentations and speeches from the 36th PHILJEC-JPECC meeting, please refer to our “Resources” below.

 

Resources:

Final Program: 36th PHILJEC-JPECC Meeting
President Duterte Congratulatory Message
PM Abe Congratulatory Message
PHILJEC Chairman Atty. Aniceto G. Saludo, Jr. Welcome Remarks
JPECC Chairman Mr. Teruo Asada Welcome Remarks
Plenary Session Presentations
Newspaper Print Ad
Dinner at Malacañang Palace
Photo Album

PHILJEC and PJS Host Reception for New BSP Governor Nestor Espenilla, Jr.

July 27, 2017by Philip Sanvictores in PHILJEC, PJS tagged , , , , , ,

The Philippines Japan Economic Cooperation Committee (PHILJEC) and The Philippines Japan Society (PJS) hosted a cocktail reception on July 10, 2017 for new BSP Governor Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr.. Governor Espenilla was a Monbusho Scholar of the Japanese Government from 1986-1988 for his Master in Policy Science degree from Japan’s premier National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS).

Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Kazuhide Ishikawa and Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun Awardee, former Philippine Prime Minister Cesar Virata graced the reception held at the Mayuree 2 Ballroom, Dusit Hotel, Makati City.

PHILJEC Chairman Aniceto G. Saludo and PJS President Francis C. Laurel led their respective organizations during the reception. PHILJEC Co-Chairman Edwin Umali, Co-Chairman Gerry Sanvictores, and PHILJEC Secretary General and PJS Trustee JJ Soriano (also from GRIPS) were also present.

In his speech titled, “The Philippines and Japan: Enhancing Strategic Partnership”, Gov. Espenilla recalled his experiences and insights as a Monbusho scholar 31 years ago.

“What a different world it was in 1986!” exclaimed the Governor. “Yet, despite all these vast changes, the Philippines-Japan Society has been unwavering in its commitment to foster closer ties between our nations – even as early as 1972, when it was formally established! I likewise commend the Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee for its steadfast initiatives to promote closer economic ties between the Philippines and Japan.”

Another insight Gov. Espenilla shared was his observation about Japanese culture and how it emphasizes cultivating a sense of self vis-à-vis others and society. “I believe this emphasis on harmony and collaboration accounts for our countries’ long-standing relationship. Cooperation between our nations has paved the way for the advancement of our economic and trade relations.”

 

Under his term as BSP Governor, Gov. Espenilla said that he would ensure that an enabling monetary and financial environment is maintained to achieve the country’s growth objectives, while safeguarding price and financial stability.  He also talked about the increasing presence of foreign banks, in particular 5 Japan-based banks in the Philippines and how this would facilitate the flow of investments, promote trade, support business expansion, and encourage technology transfers, that may lead to more job creation and more productive output. Against this backdrop, Japanese investors in the country can look forward to expanded opportunities for growth and investments.   

 

Read the full speech of Gov. Espenilla here.

7th Asian Business Summit, Singapore:
Business Leaders Set Measures to Sustain Region’s Economic Dynamism

September 28, 2016by Philip Sanvictores in PHILJEC tagged ,

Last July 16, 2016, business leaders from 10 Asian economies converged to hold the 7th Asian Business Summit at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Singapore. In a Joint Statement, the participating nations delineated measures to sustain Asia’s economic dynamism and described the role the private sector has in supporting the endeavor.

Four topics were highlighted in the meeting namely Regional Economic Integration, Infrastructure Development, Innovation & Technology, and Environment & Energy. The delegates agreed to advocate for the goals set during the meeting and provide actionable inputs to the policy makers of their respective Economies.

On the subject of Regional Economic Integration, The Summit placed particular importance on the need to have inclusive Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). It sees the implementation of EPA/FTAs as a way to liberalize trade, raise the price competitiveness of the region as a whole, and attract more foreign direct investments especially in the manufacturing and services sectors.

Meanwhile, for Infrastructure Development, the business leaders acknowledged the pressing need of infrastructures such as logistics (railways, harbors, airports, LNG terminals etc.), electric power plants, and telecommunications in Asian economies.

The Summit believes that through reduced customs duties on materials/equipment, transparent domestic regulations, sufficient protection of intellectual property rights and unrestricted remittance, a business environment in which private sectors could undertake infrastructure projects without encountering operational obstacles can be created.  

For Innovation & Technology, The Summit encouraged the establishment of special economic zones (SEZs) in each Economy, which offer incentives to companies and research institutes devoted to developing breakthrough technologies. It also encouraged broader cooperation with third economies in making sure that issues concerning region-specific standards and technical regulations do not stifle business activities in the region.

Lastly, on the discussion about Environment & Energy, The Summit urged the prompt ratification and implementation of the Paris Agreement signed last December 2015 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Also, to address the issue on emissions and energy efficiency, the leaders encouraged the deployment of energy-efficient infrastructure, housing, motor vehicles, and household appliances as well as eliminating trade barriers on environmentally friendly goods.

In total, 11 business organizations from 10 Asian Economies participated in the meeting. A complete list of delegates and their respective organizations/companies can be found under the References section below.
==================

References:
7th Asian Business Summit Joint Statement
7th Asian Business Summit List of Delegates
7th Asian Business Summit Program
7th Asian Business Summit Photo Album

 

PHILJEC-JPECC Hold 34th Joint Meeting Celebrating 60 Years of Phil-Japan Relations

September 14, 2016by Philip Sanvictores in JPECC, PHILJEC tagged , , , ,

The Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee, Inc. (PHILJEC) and its counterpart, Japan-Philippines Economic Cooperation Committee (JPECC) held their 34th joint meeting at the New World Hotel in Makati City last February 22-23, 2016.

To commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the normalization of bilateral ties between Japan and the Philippines, this year’s meeting adopted the theme of “Philippines-Japan@60 Onwards,” and served as a forum for the discussion of socio-economic issues and collaborative ideas that will enable the two economies to effectively compete in the global market.

PHILJEC Chairman, Roberto Jose Castillo and JPECC Chairman, Toshiyuki Shiga welcomed key speakers and delegates from respected government institutions and private companies, which included Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary, Adrian S. Cristobal, Jr. and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, Kazuhide Ishikawa among other distinguished guests.

“We are profoundly honored that this 60th Anniversary [of the establishment of normal diplomatic relations] was marked at the first month of this year by the visit to the Philippines of their Majesties: Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko,” Chairman Castillo remarked during his welcome speech.

Expounding more about the Emperor’s visit in the previous month, Castillo shared, “I, myself, was asked by His Majesty Emperor Akihito to keep helping enhance the business relations between Japan and the Philippines. In my mind and in my heart, His Majesty’s request is a most honorable command to me and to all of us in PHILJEC.”

Discussions in the meeting focused on issues affecting businesses in the Philippines and Japan: The socio-economic and monetary situation in the Philippines and Japan; the promotion of investment in automotive, electronics, power and science and technology industry in the two countries; and possible business collaborations that could help the two nations continue to be globally competitive.

==================

References:

PHILJEC Chairman, Roberto Jose Castillo Opening Remarks
PHILJEC-JPECC 34th Joint Meeting Program
Congratulatory Message from President Benigno Aquino III
PHILJEC-JPECC 34th Joint Meeting Photo Album
PHILJEC-JPECC 34th Joint Meeting Presentations

PHILFEJA, PHILJEC host Kansai Keizai Douyukai Study Mission (Dec 3, 2015)

December 3, 2015by Philip Sanvictores in PHILFEJA, PHILJEC

The Philippine Federation of Japan Alumni (PHILFEJA) and the Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee (PHILJEC) hosted a Dialogue with members of the Asia Human Resource Committee of the Kansai Keizai Douyukai 関西経済同友会, held December 3, 2015 at the Ambassador Jose S. Laurel III Hall, 3rd Floor Dominion Building, Makati City.

 Kansai Keizai Douyukai dispatched a study mission to Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines to assess human resource development needs, especially in light of shifting demographics in Japan and ASEAN.  Of particular interest to the Japanese visitors was the state and direction of Nihongo training in the Philippines.

 The dialogue was moderated by PHILFEJA President Philip B. Sanvictores.  The panelists who engaged in the Dialogue were:

Name Company Designation Organization / Position
PHILFEJA-PHILJEC PANELISTS
1 Mr. Roberto L. Castillo EEI Corporation President/CEO PHILJEC. Chairman
2 Mr. Gerard B. Sanvictores Quantum Group Chairman/CEO PHILJEC. Co-Chairman
3 Mr. JJ Soriano Soriano Projects & Ventures CEO PHILJEC. Sec-Gen
4 Atty. Eusebio V. Tan ACCRA Law Managing Partner PHILJEC. Former Chairman
5 Atty. Jose Vicente E. Jimenez JG Law – Bello Valdez Caluya & Fernandez Senior Partner PHILJEC. Trustee
6 Atty. Carrie Bee Hao Romulo Mabanta Law Office Partner, Japan Desk PHILJEC. Trustee
7 Mr. Richard I. Osmond Science Park of the PH, Inc. Executive VP & GM PHILJEC. Trustee
8 Mr. Philip B. Sanvictores Netmarks Philippines President PHILFEJA. President
PHILJEC. Trustee
9 Engr. Ernie Abrenica Abcor Industrial President PHILFEJA. Former President
10 Mr. Domingo Go Metrobank Vice-President PHILFEJA. Director
11 Mrs. Marilen L. Loinaz Philippines-Japan Friendship Foundation, Inc. Administrator PHILJEC-PHILFEJA  Secretariat
12 Mrs. Glenda T. Ferma Deputy Administrator
KANSAI KEIZAI DOUYUKAI MISSION
1 Mr. Yoichi Kobayashi Itochu Corporation Senior Advisor Committee Chairman
2 Mr. Mamoru Tanaka MIRAIT Technologies Senior Corporate Officer Committee Member
3 Mr Yoshitaka Saga Osaka Gas Co., Ltd/ Manager Committee Member
4 Mr. Fumitada Ito Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Kansai Corporate Adm & Development Dept Committee Member
5 Mr. Kasuya Sumita NTT West Corp Manager Committee Member
6 Mr. Kazushi Kono Itochu Corp Manila Branch General Manager Committee Member
7 Ms. Yoshiko Matoba Itochu Corp Gen Manager, Adm & Devt Dept Staff
8 Ms. Masako Tsukada Itochu Corp Adm & Devt Dept Staff

 

After the dialogue, PHILJEC Chairman Bobby Castillo graciously hosted dinner for the conferees at the El Cirkulo restaurant.

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