Romualdez assures gov’t vow to protect national interest in WPS

FILE PHOTO: House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Photo from the official website of House of Representatives / congress.gov.ph

MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, in a statement on Sunday, assured the public of the government’s strengthened commitment to protecting national interests in the West Philippine Sea.

This came after Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio’s speech in a special joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate on Saturday.

Kishida bared Japan’s support to the country when it came to issues of security and defense cooperation.

READ: Japan commits to reinforcing Philippines’ maritime defense power

“Prime Minister Kishida’s remarks prove that Japan is a dependable, eager, and stable partner of the Philippines in fostering international order. Together with like-minded nations such as the United States (US), we look forward to solidifying the cooperation blueprint with Japan,” Romualdez said.

Kishida also mentioned Japan’s delivery of 12 Philippine Coast Guard ships and the donation of a warning and control radar to the Philippine Air Force.

READ: Japan makes first delivery of radar unit to PH

“We sincerely thank Prime Minister Kishida and the Japanese people for their generosity, they truly are a good friend of our country,” said Romualdez.

The House speaker added that the House has taken “serious steps” to expand the capabilities of the coast guard, army, and other security agencies by reallocating P1.23 billion in confidential funds as part of the P5.768 trillion General Appropriations Bill.