On Feb. 20, Ambassador Endo Kazuya of the Embassy of Japan hosted the annual National Day Reception at the Grand Hyatt Manila to celebrate the 65th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Marking the occasion, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Ellen B. De La Vega graced the event and led the toast. 
Other honorable guests who attended the momentous event were Senate President Francis Escudero, Speaker of the House of Representatives Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, and Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown. 

In his speech, Ambassador Endo highlighted that Japan-Philippines relations have entered the “Golden Age” bolstered by nurtured friendship and strategic partnership. He mentioned that, as like-minded countries, Japan and the Philippines have further strengthened cooperation in various sectors, encompassing security, economic, and people-to-people exchanges. 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. 

Ambassador Endo 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, he 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 evening commenced with a Nihon Buyo or Japanese traditional dance by the Gion Higashi Song and Dance Society, Kyoto, who presented their interpretation of the Matsuzukushi or “All Sorts of Pine Trees.” 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.  

Among the several Japanese cultural elements displayed at the reception were the Ikebana and Bonsai arrangements. Centrally positioned during the program, the timeless elegant pieces served as 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.