MANILA  -- House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday reaffirmed his commitment to advance the partnership between Philippines and Japan, citing the latter’s importance as the country’s economic and defense ally. 

The House leader issued the statement following the arrival to the Philippines of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba for a two-day official visit.

The speaker underscored Japan and Philippines "strong leadership".

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“Noong nakaraang taon, nakapirma tayo ng mga bagong trilateral agreement between Japan, the Philippines and the US, kaya tuloy-tuloy din ang pag-uugnayan dito sa mga pwede nating gawin with Japan in terms of investments, trade, and of course for defense and security concerns,” Romualdez said in a video released by the Office of the House Speaker.

The House of Representatives stands ready to expand parliamentary cooperation with Japan, according to the House leader. 

“At a time of rising global uncertainty, it is essential for like-minded nations to stand firmly together. We must protect the rules-based international order, uphold sovereignty, and drive forward a future of shared prosperity and peace,” Romualdez said in a statement. 

“Together, we will champion initiatives that uplift our peoples and strengthen the enduring bond between our nations,” he added. 

Ishiba's meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. "will aim to deepen and improve economic and development cooperation, political and defense engagements, and people-to-people exchanges", the Presidential Communications Office previously said.

Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba to visit Philippines in late April