PM Abe visits Manila

It's his first visit to my dear homeland since taking office last September.

I wouldn't ask how did he find Mrs. Arroyo nor what special Filipino dishes did he eat during the visit. I am more concerned, as others are, about the things accomplished for this visit, despite the last-minute cancellation of the ASEAN Summit and six-party talks (well, this is another story, and quite interesting, I'm telling you).

Japan Times said that the visit affirmed the two countries' position in "condemning North Korea's nuclear test and vowing to quash global terrorist threats."

In a joint statement, the two leaders "expressed their grave concern" about the Korean Peninsula, blasted North Korea for its October nuclear test and urged Pyongyang to give up nuclear weapons.

They also "shared the view that the threat of terrorism remains a regional and global security concern and reaffirmed their determination to prevent, suppress and eliminate all forms of terrorism," according to the statement, signed at the presidential Malacanang Palace.

On other issues, Abe and Arroyo agreed to promote policy dialogue in the fields of security, maritime and consular affairs, and to enhance cooperation on efforts to prevent and eradicate human trafficking.

In terms of economic cooperation, Arroyo expressed appreciation for Japanese official development assistance to her country, and Abe said Japan is considering providing new yen loans.

Did I read that right? NEW YEN LOANS??? Well, while that sounds good at first, it would mean a more "baon sa utang" situation. And, if I may ask, how much do we owe the Central Bank again? I'm not good at counting you know, especially if it has to be 10 figures or so. Tsk, tsk.

Anyway, I hope Mr. Abe (and his wife who joined him in the visit and busied herself in visiting orphanages) are now back home safe. ;)