PNoy visits Japan

President Benigno "PNoy" Aquino III together with his delegates arrived in Japan Sunday and will be staying for four days as state visit.

Aquino said that he is looking forward to meet Emperor Akihito who invited him at the Imperial Palace. "Now that I am the one serving as President, I am deeply thankful to the beloved Emperor for his invitation and for the opportunity to continue and uphold the good relations between the two countries," said PNoy.

His delegates were Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Transportation Secretary Manuel Roxas II and Energy Secretary Rene Almendras.

The president is expected to meet Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and some Japanese business men to discuss business in terms of electronics and tourism of both countries, and also to persuade Japanese companies to invest in Philippines.

Aquino said, "We are seeking support with regard to the West Philippine Sea since Japan is also very concerned about it as the freedom of navigation may affect also the Japanese vessels plying the West Philippine Sea." — ARA