When a devastating earthquake and tsunami struck Japan in 2011, the Philippines significantly contributed to relief efforts. Now, in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan, Japan is returning the favor.
On Monday, 25 Japanese medical workers and disaster relief experts arrived in Manila to lend a hand, the Philippines Daily Inquirer reported.
“We will never forget what the Philippines did for us in 2011,” Kenzo Iwakami, of the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, told the paper.
The relief team brought at least four tons of "relief goods and assorted medicines," according to the Manila Standard Today.
Japan is also preparing to send up to 1,000 troops from the Self-Defense Forces to help with relief efforts, Reuters reported on Wednesday. This is all in addition to the $10 million in aid Japan has already donated to the Philippines.
In 2011, the Philippines donated relief goods to Japan, according to ABS-CBN News.
Dr. Joji Tomioka, of Japan's relief team, told the Inquirer that Japan is just returning the gesture.
“This time, we have to help you. Because two years ago, you helped us," he said. "So this time, this is our turn."
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