1)Summary
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe offers ￥５ billion in loans when he meets with Philippine president. This support is aimed at facilitating agriculture development in the southern Philippine island of Mindanao-Duterte’s hometown. Dutere stayed in China last week and said Philippine will separate from the U.S. and agreed to practice self-restraint in the South China Sea and hold regular discussions on a bilateral basis in addressing maritime issues.
Japan, a close U.S. ally and the Philippine’s largest trading partner, is seeking to cement ties to the Southeast Asian nation with the agriculture assistance.
Someone said Abe needs to play a mediator and has to walk a tightrope because Duterte will draw a public rebuke from the mercurial leader.
2)Opinion
I did not understand why Abe offered it to the country that is coming harsh criticism for the policy when I read this article. However now I think there must be profit for our country.If my idea is different, Abe should refuse the offer because Japan does not have much money. I am afraid we will be heavy burdened. I do not agree with Duterte’s remarks that disregard a human rights but I know Philippine needs our support so this is difficult and serious problem for Japan.