THE JAPANESE government granted P12.8 million worth of project specifically for the construction of a school building in Pura, Tarlac and a youth community center in Cebu City.

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya gave the grant contract awarding P8.3 million to the Bidlisiw Foundation, Inc. for the Cebu City community center.

The center aims to provide essential support to children and youth in low-income communities, as well as victims of drug-related crimes and sexual abuse.

In Pura, Tarlac, Kazuya gave P4.4 million grant contract for constructing a one-story six-classroom school building for the Maungib Elementary School.

For his side, Pura Mayor John Paul Balmores said he is certain that the projects will serve as a catalyst for hope and resilience and inspire future generations.

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, meanwhile, said the school building grant is an appreciated addition to Japan’s long list of support to the Philippine education system.

“This new school building is a testament to our enduring friendship, our shared successes, and continuing commitment to progress. On behalf of the Department of Education, we thank you for decades of strengthening our system, we look forward to many more years of fruitful development cooperation,” he said.

The two Japanese projects are funded through the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects implemented by the Embassy of Japan.