Reception celebrating the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito

On May 14, Ambassador Koji Haneda hosted a Reception at his residence to celebrate the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Distinguished guests present were former Prime Minister Cesar Virata, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, Secretary Ernesto Pernia of NEDA, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, Senator Franklin Drilon, and Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, among others.

Following the abdication of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito from the Imperial Throne on April 30, His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito acceded to the Throne on May 1, ushering in the new Imperial Era “Reiwa” (“beautiful harmony”).

In his speech, Ambassador Haneda said that across the 30-years era of His Majesty the Emperor Emeritus, relations between Japan and the Philippines were greatly strengthened. The Ambassador also affirmed Japan’s best efforts to further promote stronger ties with the Filipino people in the new Imperial Era. He said “beautiful harmony, the essence of the name Reiwa, will continue to flourish in both our countries as we work together”.

Foreign Secretary Locsin delivered a congratulatory speech on behalf of the Philippine Government.
He expressed confidence that the new Imperial Era will further advance the Philippine-Japan Strategic Partnership. He also reiterated President Rodrigo Duterte’s description of Japan as a “friend closer than a brother” to underline the very warm ties between the two countries.