US supports PH’s P9-T infra program

“We understand and applaud the Philippine government focus on infrastructure development and we support that primarily,” Kim told reporters during a press conference in Makati City. (File Photo: U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/Facebook)

MANILA— The United States government supports the Philippines’ multi-billion dollar infrastructure program, Ambassador Sung Kim said Tuesday following the recently concluded 8th Bilateral Strategic Dialogue between the two states in Manila.

The initiative that has around USD180 billion (PHP9 trillion) in the budget over the next five years, targets to roll out road construction projects, irrigation systems, and energy and flood control facilities.

“We understand and applaud the Philippine government focus on infrastructure development and we support that primarily,” Kim told reporters during a press conference in Makati City.

“Some US companies are already involved. And as you know US companies have great expertise on major infrastructure projects. I think they can bring a lot to the initiatives under consideration,” he added.

In a press statement, State Department Assistant Secretary David Stilwell also said Washington is looking forward to bolstering the economic relations of the two states.

“We welcome progress on legislation which could provide more opportunities for US companies, especially in infrastructure, as part of the ‘Build, Build, Build’ program. We look forward to building on strong momentum in areas such as energy, trade, intellectual property, and science and technology,” he said.