Harmony across the seas

The Embassy of Japan officially launched the 70th Anniversary of the Philippines–Japan Friendship on 20 January with a Jazz Concert and Reception at the Proscenium Theater in Makati City. 

Titled Harmony of Friendship: A Jazz Prelude to 70 Years of Japan–Philippine Ties, the evening set a vibrant and celebratory tone for a year-long commemoration of enduring bilateral relations. The event was organized in partnership with the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) and Japan Tobacco International (JTI).

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya hosted the opening reception, with Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega leading the ceremonial toast. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Department of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Lotilla, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum, Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito Galvez, Presidential Assistant for Maritime Concerns Andres Centino, and Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez.

In his remarks, Ambassador Endo reflected on the milestones that have shaped seven decades of Japan–Philippines partnership, from economic cooperation to people-to-people exchanges. He described these milestones as “threads” woven into the fabric of a friendship renewed in 1956 and strengthened through shared aspirations and mutual respect.

Together with Japan Airlines Philippines Regional Office General Manager Funabashi Takayuki, Ambassador Endo also recognized Edmon Fuerte, the designer of the winning logo commemorating the 70th Anniversary of Philippines–Japan Friendship.

Highlighting the significance of jazz as the evening’s centerpiece, Ambassador Endo remarked, “It is in jazz we find the best virtues of our friendship: in its restless desire to create, collaborate and harmonize.” 

DTI Secretary Roque likewise delivered her congratulatory message, underscoring the cultural resonance of the concert as a fitting launch for the anniversary celebrations.

The evening concluded with a captivating jazz concert featuring the Tokyo–Manila Jazz & Arts Festival Group, headlined by Japan-based Filipina jazz singer Charito, alongside pianist Yuki Arimasa, bassist Satsuki Kusui, and drummer Hiroki Kitazawa. 

A special performance by the A.M.P. Big Band rounded out the program, leaving guests with a memorable celebration of music, friendship and shared history.