Manila, Oct. 22 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday congratulated Takaichi Sanae on her historic election as Japan's first female prime minister, calling it a landmark moment for democracy and gender representation.

"Congratulations to Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae on her historic election as Japan's first female Prime Minister. Her assumption demonstrates Japan's firm democratic advocacy and reflects the country's commitment to progress and representation," Marcos said in a statement.

Takaichi, a long-time Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker and close ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, succeeds Shigeru Ishiba after winning a clear majority in Japan's parliament.

Marcos said he looks forward to working with Takaichi ...