Japan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peacebuilding and sustainable development efforts in the Philippines as top Japanese officials participated in the 2026 International and Private Partners’ Forum (IPPF) held June 5.
Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo and Minister for Economic Affairs Naobumi Yokota joined government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations and business leaders at the forum organized by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU).
The event was led by OPAPRU Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento and focused on assessing the readiness of former conflict-affected areas for economic investments and development initiatives.
The IPPF serves as a platform for identifying opportunities, challenges and gaps in peacebuilding efforts while fostering dialogue among stakeholders. Discussions during the forum aimed to generate policy recommendations, practical solutions and partnerships that can help accelerate development in areas emerging from conflict.
During a plenary session on the investment potential of conflict-affected communities, Yokota served as a reactor and shared insights on attracting foreign and domestic investments, promoting economic transformation and advancing sustainable development despite the unique challenges facing these areas.
Yokota underscored the importance of collaboration among governments, development institutions and the private sector in creating long-term economic opportunities that can support peace and stability in communities undergoing recovery and reconciliation.
He also highlighted Japan’s longstanding role as one of the Philippines’ key development partners and its continued support for the Mindanao peace process, emphasizing that inclusive economic growth remains essential to sustaining peace gains.
The forum brought together representatives from national and local government units, the business sector, diplomatic missions and international development organizations to explore ways of strengthening investments in areas previously affected by armed conflict.
This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines, a milestone that both countries view as an opportunity to deepen cooperation across various sectors.
Japan reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Philippine government and international partners to promote lasting peace, economic progress and sustainable development throughout the country, particularly in communities transitioning from conflict to stability.