Japan's Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya sought the support and cooperation of the local government of the city of Manila as more Japanese government officials are expected to visit the country next year.

In a courtesy meeting with Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso, Endo said many Japanese government officials are expected to visit the Philippines next year due to the Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) summit and the 70th anniversary of the normalization of the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"I expect that there would also be many visitors from the government of Japan next year mainly because one it will be the ASEAN Chairmanship... and next year we will also be celebrating our 70th anniversary of the friendship between Philippines and Japan," he said.

"On those occasions we should be seeking your support and cooperation in various visits," he added.

As he welcomes the Japanese visitors in the city, Domogoso assures that the foreign tourist and investors will be "equally protected" in Manila.

"In our own little way we will try to make our Japanese visitors be safe and do business and equally protected by our laws applied to our citizens and to foreigners," he said.

"If you have a lot of activities we are happy to be the host as a city... specially we have now more open green spaces for anniversaries and other forms. You're always welcome to the City of Manila," he added.

Aside from other officials from the Embassy of Japan, also present during the meeting was Vice Mayor Chi Atienza. Robina Asido/DMS