Gov. Jim Pillen travels with Nebraska’s trade delegation to Japan and the Philippines

Pillen visited the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial where he honored resting service members

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Gov. Jim Pillen embarked from Japan to the Philippines for Nebraska’s trade delegation. In Osaka, Japan, Pillen promoted Nebraska beef, pork, wheat and low-carbon energy production.

Pillen said there has been a lot of interest in Nebraska’s products.

“I am thankful to have Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and businesses joining me on this strategic mission to Asia,” Pillen said. “They’ve been incredible advocates for Nebraska. In both Japan and the Philippines, companies have shown tremendous interest in purchasing more of the food, fuel, and energy we produce.”

Throughout the trip, Pillen, State Sen. Rita Sanders and other members of Nebraska delegation met with different companies like Marudai and Gardenia Bakery.

After the meetings, Pillen visited the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. There are more than 17,000 U.S. and Allied service members resting there. Pillen laid a wreath to honor the service members, most of whom lost their lives during World War II. This year marks 75 years of alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines.

“We enjoy freedoms as Americans because so many brave soldiers have willingly risked their lives to defend them,” Pillen said. “It was deeply moving to honor the American servicemen who are buried in Manila. We will never forget the sacrifices they made while fighting for our country in the Pacific.”