Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) officials have appealed to the Philippine government to prevent further delays in railway projects funded by Japan, Sen. JV Ejercito said Monday.
Ejercito, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance and Local Government, said JICA officials made the appeal during his recent visit to Japan, where he met with the agency’s president and other top officials.
“Nakausap namin ang presidente mismo at mga high top officials ng JICA at talagang inepela nila na sana wala nang delay [yung ating railway projects],” Ejercito said in an interview on DZRH’s ‘Dos Por Dos’.
He said the appeal highlighted the need for the government to ensure that funds allocated for railway projects are properly utilized and that implementation proceeds without further setbacks.
Ejercito said he is seeking the restoration of the minimum budget needed to cover loan proceeds due for amortization under JICA financing, as well as the government’s counterpart funding under the Government of the Philippines (GOP).
The Senator said these allocations should be sufficient to prevent delays in the implementation of railway projects.
“Hindi naman tayo tutol sa mga amendments. Sabi ko nga provided na lahat ng ito’y justified at may kasamang documentary support, at as I mentioned, dapat aligned sa national priorities,” Ejercito said.
He added that he has already met with Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Public Works and Highways Secretary Giovanni Lopez to determine the exact amount needed for the projects next year.
Ejercito said he wants to ensure that the necessary funding is provided to avoid disruptions in railway project implementation.
He stressed that the government should prioritize long-term investments that generate economic growth, attract businesses and create jobs rather than rely solely on financial assistance.
Railway systems and infrastructure development, he said, are crucial to establishing new growth centers and improving the movement of people and goods.
“‘Yan ang magbibigay ng tunay na trabaho at hanapbuhay in the long run,” Ejercito said.
Watch the full exclusive interview below:
