Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Ryuichiro Yamazaki said the Philippine-Japan relationship is next to excellent after 50 years of friendship.

He said he is thankful to all the people concerned from both countries who have contributed over the years to this excellent relationship.

Yamazaki was the keynote speaker during the 16th Vice Mayors' League of the Philippines national convention held at the Bacolod Convention Plaza Hotel Saturday where he spoke on Philippine-Japan Friendship. He also joined the inauguration of the restored Ishiwata Bath House at the Mambukal Resort in Murcia town Saturday and unveiled the National Historical Institute marker in the same occasion.

The development of the Mambukal Resort was started by Japanese Engineer Kokichi Ishiwata in 1927. The resort started with a bath house, now known as the Ishiwata Bath House as a tribute to its builder, and a picnic garden.

Ishiwata also built the hotel made of wood and some rest houses in the resort.

Meanwhile, Yamazaki said Japan is looking forward to further improve its investments in the country. He said that on April 24, the Japan Credit Rating Agency elevated the ranking of the Philippines from negative to stable and that's good news.

Yamazaki said Japan has been affected by the oil crisis in the 1970's and the 1980's but it has done various energy-saving measures over the years to address the problem. He said it is now importing oil which has the biggest influence on its economy. Yamazaki said "We do not comment openly on the domestic situation," when asked for his comment on the moves to amend the Philippine Constitution.*CGS

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