Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya hosted a dinner at his residence to honor former Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III following his receipt of the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.

The award was presented to Pimentel as part of Japan’s 2026 Spring Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals.

Pimentel, who served as Senate president from 2016 to 2018, was recognized for his role in advancing bilateral relations.

During his tenure, he helped secure the approval of the Japan-Philippines Social Security Agreement, which enhanced economic cooperation and personnel exchanges between the two nations.

He also expanded inter-parliamentary relations, including coordinating a rare visit to the Philippines by the sitting president of Japan’s House of Councillors.

Following the resignation of the late Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, Pimentel introduced a Senate resolution praising Abe’s efforts to deepen bilateral ties, which passed with unanimous co-sponsorship from all senators.

The official Imperial Conferment of Decoration took place 12 May 2026 at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

Emperor Naruhito conferred the order upon Pimentel, and Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae presented him with the official certificate.

During the Manila reception, Endo praised Pimentel’s lasting contributions to the diplomatic partnership. Pimentel expressed his gratitude to the Japanese government in an acceptance speech.

Former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, a 2025 recipient of the same award, delivered congratulatory remarks and led the toast. The event was attended by Pimentel’s family, friends, and current Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian.