Japan Fiesta 2019 Brings “All the Charms of Japan” to Filipinos

On November 9 and 10, 2019, guests were treated to a series of Japanese-style festivities at the first-ever Japan Fiesta held at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier.

Japanese drum group Wakodaiko’s high-intensity opening performance set the tone for Japan Fiesta 2019’s energetic atmosphere. This was followed by Ambassador Koji Haneda and Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat’s welcome remarks, who both expressed great optimism for deeper ties between Japan and the Philippines. A traditional kagamibiraki sake barrel-breaking ceremony conducted by Ambassador Haneda, Secretary Romulo-Puyat, JNTO Executive Director Daisuke Tonai, PTAA Board of Trustee Rene Lazaro, Japanese Association Manila, Inc. President Mitsuhiko Shimizu, and MNL 48’s Abby marked the start of festivities.
 

Multi-talented superstar of the Philippines Sarah Geronimo performed two of her biggest hits – Kilometro and Tala, to the delight of excited spectators. Her outstanding showing brought to mind her trending performance at the 2018 ASEAN-Japan Music Festival, which endeared her to Japanese audiences. Other guest performers included Pokémon’s Pikachu and Eevee with their electrifying dance number and parade.  All-girl Filipino idol group MNL 48 also set the stage alight with their topnotch medley of hits. World Yo-Yo Champion, Black also graced the event and showcased his impressive skills.
 

Impressive stage productions and activities from both Japanese and Filipino performers filled the rest of Japan Fiesta 2019. A rich diversity of booths provided guests with comprehensive information on culture and tourism from various Japanese prefectures, alongside airline and travel companies as well as concessionaires featuring Japanese food and products.
 

Japan Fiesta 2019 was organized by members of the Japan Fiesta Council – Embassy of Japan in the Philippines; Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Manila Office; the Japan Foundation, Manila; the Japanese Association, Manila, Inc. (JAMI); and Primer Media, Inc.

Visit https://japanfiesta.ph/ for more details.