June is always a busy month for Philippine foreign-service posts, capped by the high point of National Day celebrations. But this year in Japan, the pace was exceptional—with a stretch of elegant receptions, cultural showcases, and forward-looking forums marking the road to 2026’s 70th anniversary of Philippines–Japan diplomatic relations.

The essence of the Philippines, the warmth of its people, creativity, and cultural diversity, shone brightly at Expo 2025 Osaka’s Ray Garden National Day Hall. The festivities began with a parade featuring the Filipino diaspora in Japan donning their traditional attire and bringing the vibe of a Filipino fiesta to the Expo. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco described it as “a call to rediscover the Philippines—through every step, every thread, every note” while Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles highlighted the pavilion’s ambitious scale: 212 handwoven textiles, immersive wellness zones, and a strong sustainability ethos.

The cultural performance, Hinabing Hiraya (Woven Imagination), brought ancestral traditions and contemporary artistry to the stage. National Living Treasure for Chanting Rosie Godwino Sula opened the program with echoes of generations past, later joined by groups like Lumad Basakanon, UPeepz, Zephanie, and the Loboc Children’s Choir. It was a story stitched together in song and movement—rooted, resilient, and deeply moving. More than a few in the audience were brought to tears.

Just days later, on June 12, the Philippine Embassy’s hallmark Independence Day reception was held at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo. Ambassador Mylene Garcia-Albano welcomed a distinguished mix of Japanese officials, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural partners as they toasted the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence. In her keynote, the ambassador spoke of a “golden age” in bilateral ties, lauding Japan’s commitment to shared democratic values and rules-based order. ““​​This occasion serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by our heroes, a celebration of the enduring spirit of the Filipino people, and a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to freedom, democracy, and a rules-based international order—values that resonate deeply with our gracious hosts here in Japan,” Ambassador Garcia-Albano added.

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya echoed that sentiment, hailing 2025 as a historic year for Philippines-Japan relations, highlighted by successive high-level visits to the Philippines by top Japanese officials, including Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, the Foreign Minister himself, and members of the Japan-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship League.

Another highlight of the evening was Japan’s Defense Minister toasting to recent security cooperation strides, including the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the two countries. Meanwhile, the embassy tapped the sensory route: a showcase of premium Philippine fruits and products as well as a special feature on the Philippines’ participation at World Expo Osaka 2025.

An exhibit and photo wall, offering guests a glimpse of the Philippine national pavilion at the ongoing international exposition at Osaka Kansai invited guests to explore the pavilion’s theme and show their support for the Philippine pavilion.

Just as meaningful as the National Day showcase was President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visit to the Philippine Pavilion on the 20th of June. The President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos were welcomed by Tourism Secretary Frasco, COO Marga Nograles, and the Pavilion’s creative team, who walked them through the Pavilion’s story: a structure built to celebrate the country’s deep well of craftsmanship, sustainability, and community pride. A fashion show by Michael Leyva, featuring the timeless terno, added an extra layer of elegance and cultural pride to the day. For many in the audience, it was a moment that neatly tied together what the Pavilion—and the Philippines’ presence at Expo 2025—aims to do: remind the world that heritage and innovation go hand in hand.

The President’s presence in Osaka underscored the Philippines’ intent to deepen ties not only with Japan but with the global community tuning in to Expo 2025. By spending time to also with Japanese companies and leaders of the Filipino community in Kansai, he reinforced the message that cooperation, investment, and cultural connection remain at the heart of this ‘golden age’ of relations.

A quick walk through the Pavilion’s handwoven façade and multisensory exhibits offered the delegation a preview of how the Philippines intends to tell its story on a world stage—one that blends nature, culture, and innovation with a human touch. As the First Couple posed for photos and spoke with Filipino workers and volunteers at the site, it reminded everyone present that the real power of these international showcases comes from the people who carry the story forward.

And this was only June. From Osaka to Tokyo, the Philippines’ brand of diplomacy has been clear, warm, and deliberate, planting seeds ahead of next year’s 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties with Japan. Expect more gatherings, more showcases, and more opportunities to tell our story well beyond the Pavilion walls and its time in Osaka.