KOREA-PH INFRA FORUM. Officials from both the Philippines and South Korea pose for a photo during the conclusion of this year's Korea-Philippines Infrastructure Forum in Makati City on September 6, 2019. (Photo courtesy of DOTr)
MANILA – The Embassy of the Republic of Korea highlighted on Friday the infrastructure projects of the Duterte administration to encourage South Korean companies to contribute to the country’s "Build, Build, Build" program.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar presented the government infrastructure projects at the Korea-Philippines Infrastructure Forum in Makati City upon the invitation of the Korean embassy.
“The Korean embassy wanted the DOTr to present to them the infrastructure projects of the department, so various companies from Korea will see where they can contribute or collaborate with us,” the DOTr, through its Communications and Commuter Affairs Office said.
Kim Hyun Mee, Korean Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, during the event, hoped for a “huge boost” in the cooperation of the two countries in the field of infrastructure.
“After today, I wish our cooperation in the field of infrastructure would receive a huge boost. I would like to highlight the fellowship and training programs for our partners. I heard there is a long traditional 'pakikisama'. We are bound in blood," Kim said.
During the forum, government officials presented completed and ongoing projects to various South Korean companies to urge other Korean businessmen to explore opportunities in the Philippines.
Following the two countries’ celebration of 70 years of diplomatic ties, Tugade thanked South Korean Ambassador Han Dong-Man for his efforts and highlighted the skills and technological capabilities of South Korea.
“Let us make these moments of dialogue more meaningful and come out with a firm commitment that we will work together, with the spirit of peace and order, characterized by no corruption, and respecting each other's sovereignty," Tugade said.
Also present in the forum were DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark de Leon, DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Director General Jim Sydiongco, Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Elson Hermogino, and Korean Assistant Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Lee Siong Hai. (PNA)
