Contrary to criticisms from its Asian neighbors, Malacañang on Saturday welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s statement on the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, saying it reflected the values that strengthened the relationship between the Philippines and its former foe Japan.
“We support Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s advocacy of ‘proactive contribution to peace’ based on the primacy of the values of freedom, democracy and human rights, upon which the strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan is founded,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma said in a statement.
In his 25-minute address, Abe acknowledged the “immeasurable damage and suffering” that his country had done during World War II, but added that future generations of Japanese should not keep on apologizing.
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Coloma said Japan’s “reflection upon the lessons of war” was connected to its commitment to “renounce violence, threat or force as means of settling international disputes, and to pursue peace as the path to long-term global prosperity.”
“We note the significance of Japan’s commitment ‘to develop a free, fair and open international economic system’ while providing continuing assistance to developing countries, as well as to lead in championing respect for women’s human rights,” he added.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario also on Saturday said the two former rival nations had developed a “strong friendship” anchored on “trust and unfailing support in so many fields.”
“This 70-year history demonstrates to the world that through their relentless efforts, peoples of two countries can attain a remarkable achievement in overcoming issues of the past and establishing strong friendship,” he said.
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Japan, who has been helping the country in its maritime dispute with China through defense cooperation, is now the Philippines’ biggest source of development assistance. Yuji Vincent Gonzales/RC