Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Endo Kazuya joined Philippine officials and veterans in commemorating the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan on 9 April 2025.

Ambassador Endo was among the dignitaries who delivered a speech during the solemn ceremony, which was also attended by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, members of Congress, Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia, and representatives from the United States Embassy.

In his address, Ambassador Endo paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Filipino and American soldiers who defended Bataan during World War II, and expressed his profound respect for the veterans whose legacy contributed to today’s peace and freedom.

He also underscored the strategic importance of the Philippines in the current international landscape and emphasized the strengthening cooperation between Japan and the Philippines in various fields, particularly in security and economic development.

This year’s commemoration comes as Japan marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Ambassador Endo expressed Japan’s commitment to peace and looked ahead to next year’s 70th anniversary of the normalization of Japan-Philippines diplomatic relations, noting that closer trilateral cooperation among Japan, the Philippines, and the United States will be key to ensuring peace and prosperity in the region.