A city in Miyagi Prefecture that was devastated by the March 2011 disasters is sharing its recovery lessons with the central Philippines, which is trying to recover from the damage Typhoon Haiyan inflicted in November.
Shuya Takahashi of Higashi-Matsushima's Reconstruction Policy Division said the city is trying to become place that can "withstand disasters and is safe, where people can feel secure and live with smiles on their faces, and nurture industries and create jobs."
Takahashi was speaking Friday at a seminar organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Philippine Public Works and Highways Department. The two bodies are sharing experiences and strategies on disaster management and reconstruction.