National Day Reception Celebrating the 83rd Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan 7 December 2016

Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa hosted a reception on the occasion of the national day of Japan on Wednesday, December 7, at his residence in Makati City. The reception was attended by former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, former Prime Minister Cesar Virata, Senate President Aquilino Martin Pimentel III, Senate President Pro-Tempore Franklin Drilon, Secretary of Finance Carlos Dominguez III, and other distinguished guests.

Ambassador Ishikawa welcomed the guests, noting that this year marks the 60th Anniversary of Japan-Philippines diplomatic relations and the reception is one of the culminating events of a yearlong friendship celebration between the Philippines and Japan.

Following Ambassador Ishikawa’s welcome remarks, acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ariel Abadilla delivered toast remarks expressing hope for the continued good health and well-being of His Majesty and a stronger Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

Also at the reception were Japanese companies who set up their respective booths for promoting their products, technology, and services. Gifu Prefecture, located in the center of Japan, provided its famous beef “Hidagyu (Wagyu)” and tourist information.