Message of Ambassador Koshikawa on the National Day to celebrate the 61st Birthday of His Majesty of the Emperor of Japan
Isang magandang araw para magdiwang!
Today, we celebrate the 61st birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Unfortunately, given the current COVID 19 Pandemic, the celebration reception has to be cancelled.
First of all, I would like to share a part of His Majesty's New Year's message with the people of the Philippines.
“We humans have been hit by many horrific plagues and major natural disasters. However, I think that each time, with unity and patience, we have overcome those challenges. I sincerely hope that, now, in this difficult situation, with a firm hope for the future, believing that the day when we can live with peace of mind will surely come in the not too distant future, we will move forward while compassionately helping and supporting each other.” (Informal translation)
Japan and the Philippines currently enjoy the best relationship in bilateral history. We have fostered a relationship of mutual understanding and trust that has been achieved by overcoming many difficulties. H.E. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte described the relationship as a true friend closer than a brother. Our two countries share basic values such as freedom and democracy and the rule of law. We also share a common position that maintaining peace and order under international laws is the most basic international rules. Japan aims to realize a "free and open Indo-Pacific" with like-minded countries that share such basic values and position. A world in which strong nations overwhelm other nations and force their claims is incompatible with the international order the modern nations have built over a long period of time.
This year, our two countries will celebrate both the 65th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations, as well as the 10th anniversary of our strategic partnerships. Our unwavering relationship of trust has remarkably deepened in all aspects such as diplomatic trust, trade and investment, economic cooperation, maritime law enforcement, defense cooperation, cultural exchange, and increased mutual visits by tourists.
On December 14, last year, Japan's new Prime Minister SUGA Yoshihide held his first telephone conversation with H.E. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and agreed to deepen and strengthen bilateral relations more than ever.
Japan opened the Consulate General in Cebu in January this year. This is the second Consulate General after Davao. It is Japan's strong message to further develop relations with the Philippines.
As we are now faced with lingering challenges longer than we first thought, both our peoples and governments are working vigorously to put an end to this pandemic. This reminds me of the anime "Kimetsu no Yaiba" — also known as "Demon Slayer" in English — which has been smashing records in Japan. Its story revolves around Kamado Tanjiro fighting against demons, and among its powerful themes are family love, friendship, and overcoming the odds. Every time Tanjiro faces difficulties, he repeatedly recalls the phrase “Do not lose! Keep your heart burning!” We are now in our own battle against the pandemic. Let us fight together as Tanjiro did with the compassion and solidarity of his friends, and keep the flame in our hearts burning. Let us stand by each other and let us heal as one.
I am happy to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan with the people of the Philippines. At the same time, I sincerely wish for the continued good health of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan and H.E. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, and for the everlasting friendship between Japan and the Philippines.
Mabuhay tayong lahat!