Japan envoy visits Baguio City

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya visited Baguio City from 2 to 3 December, meeting with various officials and Filipino-Japanese residents, and visiting cultural sites.

On 2 December, Ambassador Endo met with Mr. Carlos Teraoka of the Filipino-Japanese Foundation of Northern Luzon, Inc., as well as some Nikkei-jin in Abong, Baguio City. He expressed appreciation for the foundation's significant contributions in supporting the Nikkei-jin community, advancing education, and deepening mutual understanding between Japan and the Philippines. Ambassador Endo also expressed his anticipation of working together to further strengthen the bonds of history and culture for the future.

At the Baguio Japanese Memorial Garden, Ambassador Endo offered flowers at the Cenotaph for the War Dead.

He expressed his deepest condolences to the souls of those who became victims of war and reaffirmed the importance of peace. Ambassador Endo also expressed Japan’s continued commitment to conveying the value of peace to future generations.

In addition, Ambassador Endo visited the Japanese Cemetery in Baguio to pay respects at the graves of Sister Theresia Unno and others who endured hardships in Baguio. Sister Theresia Unno's life of dedication was honored, and her spirit was deeply reflected upon. The ambassador commended their inspiring legacy, which continues to support Nikkei-jin communities and promote Japan-Philippines friendship. He conveyed his hopes that efforts for peace and friendship will continue to carry her legacy into the future. Ambassador Endo also met with members of the Northern Luzon Japanese Association, who have been active in Baguio for a long time.

On 3 December, Ambassador Endo visited the Baguio City Hall and exchanged views with Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Ambassador Endo asked for the continued understanding and cooperation of the city in ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals living in Baguio and the Japanese-Philippine groups. He also introduced the Japanese government's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) and stated that he would like to strengthen support and cooperation for Baguio City in the future.

Mayor Magalong welcomed Ambassador Endo’s visit to Baguio City and expressed his hopes for future cooperation between Japan and Baguio.