The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Government of Japan have reaffirmed their long-standing commitment to deepening economic cooperation in Mindanao, prioritizing strategic investments in infrastructure, transport modernization, and clean energy.
In a courtesy meeting held recently, MinDA Chairperson, Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuya Endo discussed the roadmap for a sustainable and resilient Mindanao. Secretary Magno emphasized the critical role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in accelerating the region’s development.
“Japan has been a long-standing development partner of the Philippines. We see strong potential for deeper collaboration in clean energy and regional development, which are crucial for building a sustainable and resilient Mindanao,” Secretary Magno stated.
A key focus of the discussion was the modernization of Mindanao’s transport systems. Partnering with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), MinDA is eyeing railway development as a cornerstone for regional economic integration. Ambassador Endo expressed Japan’s strong interest in supporting these projects, noting the global leadership of Japanese firms in railway technology and expertise.
To ensure these projects reach fruition, Secretary Magno highlighted MinDA’s ongoing capacity-building efforts with the PPP Center of the Philippines. This initiative aims to assist Local Government Units (LGUs) in preparing “bankable” projects capable of attracting international investors, particularly from the Japanese business sector.
Addressing the region’s energy security, Secretary Magno encouraged Japanese participation in the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program. He noted that Mindanao’s vast potential for solar, hydro, and other renewable sources is central to the country’s sustainability goals.
The meeting also touched upon vital collaboration prospects within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Both parties agreed that sustained investment in infrastructure and energy within BARMM is essential for maintaining peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the region.
Reinforcing the spirit of sub-regional partnership, Secretary Magno invited Ambassador Endo to the upcoming BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area) Leaders’ Summit on May 7 in Cebu. Japan remains a pivotal development partner for BIMP-EAGA, supporting initiatives that drive balanced growth across Southeast Asia.
The meeting was also attended by Madame Akiko Endo; Consul General Ono Hirotaka; and MinDA Executive Director, Usec. Janet M. Lopoz.
These collaborative efforts align with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to advance regional cooperation and modernize the nation’s infrastructure. This partnership serves as a key pillar in the “Building a Better Mindanao” initiative, contributing to the administration’s vision for a resilient and inclusive Philippines.
