First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos recently met with Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya and his wife, Akiko Endo, to convey the Philippine government’s gratitude for the enduring economic ties and friendship between the two nations.

“A relationship built on mutual respect, shared values and strong people-to-people ties that continue to grow through the years,” the First Lady said in a post on her official Instagram account.

“Here’s to many more years of partnership and goodwill between our two nations. Mabuhay! Kampai!” she added.

Diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines were normalized on 23 July 1956 following the entry into force of the San Francisco Peace Treaty and the Reparations Agreement between Japan and the Republic of the Philippines.

70 years of deep ties

The year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. In commemoration of this milestone, both countries have designated 2026 as Japan–Philippines Friendship Year (70th Anniversary of the Normalization of Diplomatic Relations).

WIth the theme, “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities,” Japan and the Philippines aim to further strengthen their friendly relations through a wide range of events and activities promoting bilateral exchanges throughout the year.