President Arroyo said that she appreciated a greater Japanese global role in connection with the free trade agreement with Tokyo. "We were very happy when you announced your foreign policy to open Japan and indeed look forward to Japan playing a bigger role, not only for economic integration but also peace, security and stability," Arroyo told reporters as she prepares for an audience with Prime Minister Abe.

Looking to amend the post-World War II pacifist constitution, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, said that Japan was dedicated to its relationship with the Philippines and other members of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations. "I believe it is very important, not only for Japan but also for the region, to build a stronger cooperative relationship with the Philippines, which is one of the most democratic countries of ASEAN," Abe said.

The Philippines, after signing a free-trade agreement with Japan last year, demanded a promise that Japan will not dump toxic waste in the country.