(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I have one announcement regarding our response to the Kumamoto Earthquake. As Typhoon No. 13 approaches, rain and winds are expected in the areas affected by the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake. At the request of Kumamoto Prefecture, as part of emergency cooperation to protect homes damaged by the earthquake, the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) has decided to cover homes with blue tarpaulins jointly with Kumamoto Prefecture and the Kumamoto Construction Association. The work began at 10:00 a.m. today in the Kagami and Sencho districts of Yatsushiro City. We plan to expand the target areas and the number of SDF personnel engaged in the operation. Specifically, specialized contractors designated by the prefecture who are capable of installing tarpaulins without gaps will cover roofs and other elevated locations. In principle, the SDF will provide ground-based support, including transporting tarpaulins, bringing them up to elevated locations, and ensuring safety around the work sites. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has also requested the cooperation of these specialized contractors. Kumamoto Prefecture, the Kumamoto Construction Association, and the SDF will leverage their respective strengths and work together to quickly install tarpaulins and ensure minimum damage to affected homes. That concludes my update.