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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Philippines and Japan celebrate strengthened friendship through cultural events

Philippines and Japan celebrate strengthened friendship through cultural events

Ambassador Endo Kazuya joins officials for Kaien ceremony and a monthlong showcase of cultural diplomacy

Published Jul 21, 2025 02:35 pm
A celebration of shared tradition of_culture and craft at Newport World Resorts
A celebration of shared tradition of_culture and craft at Newport World Resorts
A full month of cultural and culinary programming at Newport World Resorts in July marked the celebration of Philippine-Japan Friendship Month, highlighted by the inaugural Kaien ceremony led by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya.
The Kaien event, held on July 16 at Hotel Okura Manila’s Yawaragi restaurant, served as a ceremonial opening to the resort-wide celebration. Ambassador Endo led the traditional sake toast, joined by Newport World Resorts President and CEO Nilo Thaddeus Rodriguez, Department of Tourism NCR OIC–Assistant Regional Director Ivannovich Dmitriv Agote, Newport World Resorts Chief Hospitality Officer John Lucas, and Hotel Okura Manila General Manager Jan Marshall.
Organized in cooperation with Hotel Okura Manila, the celebration emphasized the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Japan and the Philippines. Through the Kaien ceremony and other events, both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to cultural exchange, people-to-people connections, and mutual respect.
The evening featured a curated art showcase by Japanese expert Satoro Fujita and live Taiko drum performances, underscoring traditional elements central to Japanese heritage.
Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Endo Kazuya
Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Endo Kazuya
Throughout July, Newport World Resorts hosted a range of activities that highlighted the depth of Philippine-Japanese cultural ties. These included sushi workshops at Yamazato with Chef Ikuma Sato, mochi-making sessions at Yawaragi with Chef Vi Serrano, and a special buffet and afternoon tea set inspired by Japanese and Filipino culinary traditions.
From July 1 to 20, the art exhibit “20 Degrees Difference in Light” was staged at The Grove in Newport Mall, featuring collaborative works by Japanese and Filipino artists. Cultural performances at The Plaza included Geisha dances, Koto music, Filipino Paso Doble, and Taiko drumming, presented on multiple dates throughout the month.
The Tanabata Festival, held from July 14 to 20, invited guests to express personal wishes through origami decorations hung on bamboo branches, while guests who stayed on July 19 received complimentary mochi in their hotel rooms as part of the cultural observance.
The festivities concluded on July 19 with the Plaza Matsuri, a public celebration that featured traditional kimono-wearing, origami-making, cultural displays, and interactive photo booths. Live performances closed the month’s celebration on a high note.
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