MANILA, Philippines – The bilateral relations between Japan and the Philippines have entered the “Golden Age”, bolstered by nurtured friendship and strategic partnership.
During the National Day Reception celebrating the 65th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan on Thursday (Feb. 20) in Taguig City, Japan’s envoy to the Philippines ENDO Kazuya highlighted the strong bilateral ties between the two countries.
“As like-minded countries, Japan and the Philippines have further strengthened cooperation in various sectors, encompassing security, economic, and people-to-people exchanges,” Endo said in his remarks.
Ambassador Endo recalled the significant milestones, such as the historic signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), Japan’s steady provision of the Official Security Assistance (OSA), and the recent visit of Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi to the country.
He also emphasized Japan’s commitment to enhancing Japan-Philippines economic cooperation, underscoring the development of momentous infrastructure projects including the Metro Manila Subway, the North-South Commuter Railway, and the Davao City Bypass.
In relation to the two countries’ deepening economic ties, Endo referred to the World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai as a "meaningful event that celebrates innovations and welcomes the participation of the Philippines’ pavilion."
In the reception, “MYAKU-MYAKU,” the official character or mascot of the Expo, also greeted the audience, the Embassy of Japan stated.
Honourable guests who graced the occasion were Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Hon. Ma. Ellen B. De La Vega, who led the toast; Senate President Hon. Francis Escudero; Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez; Chief Justice Hon. Alexander Gesmundo; and Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop H.E. Most Reverend Charles Brown. (Photo courtesy of Embassy of Japan in the PH)
The evening began with a Nihon Buyo or Japanese traditional dance by the Gion Higashi Song & Dance Society, Kyoto, who presented their interpretation of the Matsuzukushi or “All Sorts of Pine Trees.”
According to the Embassy of Japan, traditionally performed during ceremonies, the dance production showcased Japan’s rich cultural heritage through graceful movements and artistic expression.
Afterward, the guests were treated to a remarkable rendition of the Japanese and Philippine National Anthem led by the Santo Domingo Male Chorale, setting a dignified tone for the festivities that followed.
The reception also featured Ikebana and Bonsai arrangements, with some centrally positioned during the program, to provide a visual representation of the thriving ties between Japan and the Philippines.
The reception also featured 32 specialty booths by Japanese companies and organizations, presenting various Japanese products and merchandise, as well as an array of fresh seafood, sake and a variety of Japanese gourmet food that enriched the vibrant ambiance of the event, the Embassy said.
Honourable guests who graced the occasion were Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Hon. Ma. Ellen B. De La Vega, who led the toast; Senate President Hon. Francis Escudero; Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez; Chief Justice Hon. Alexander Gesmundo; and Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop H.E. Most Reverend Charles Brown.
