On 12 December 2024, Ambassador ENDO Kazuya led a series of meaningful activities in Muntinlupa City to honor the legacy of the late President Elpidio Quirino, whose historic act of forgiveness paved the way for strengthened Philippines-Japan relations. The events included the unveiling of a memorial monument, a tribute at the Japanese Cemetery, and a visit to the Museo ng Muntinlupa.

The unveiling ceremony of the memorial monument for President Quirino took place at the Kiyoshi Ozawa Compound in the New Bilibid Reservation Area. Distinguished guests included Hon. Rozzano Rufino Biazon, Mayor of Muntinlupa City; Atty. Aleli Angela G. Quirino, President of the Quirino Foundation; General Gregorio Catapang, Director General of the Bureau of Corrections; Mr. Francis C. Laurel, President of the Philippines-Japan Society; Mr. ASANUMA Takeshi, Chairman of ANG PINOY@HAPON UNITED FOUNDATION, Inc.; and Ms. KANO Kayoko of KANO Art Promotion Japan.

Organized by ANG PINOY@HAPON UNITED FOUNDATION, Inc., the project serves as a tribute to President Quirino’s leadership and humanity. In 1953, he granted amnesty to Japanese prisoners of war (POWs) in the Philippines, a landmark gesture that laid the groundwork for the normalization of bilateral ties.

In July 2023, the Japanese Embassy commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Presidential Pardon for Japanese POWs at President Quirino’s memorial in the Libingan ng mga Bayani. A monument dedicated to President Quirino has stood in Tokyo’s Hibiya Park since 2016, symbolizing enduring goodwill.

Ambassador Endo commended President Quirino for his remarkable statesmanship and forgiveness, emphasizing the significance of passing his legacy to future generations.

Following the unveiling ceremony, Ambassador Endo offered flowers and prayers at the Japanese Cemetery, located within the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation Compound, paying respects to those who lost their lives during World War II and praying for eternal peace.

The day concluded with a guided tour of the Museo ng Muntinlupa. The exhibit highlighted the city’s history, including a commemorative section on President Quirino’s landmark pardon.