FL sees solid Japan ties with new envoy

Beyond diplomatic courtesies, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos is looking to deepen the longstanding friendship between the Philippines and Japan, placing people-to-people connections, cultural exchanges, and new partnerships at the heart of closer bilateral relations.

The First Lady warmly welcomed Japanese Ambassador Katsuro Kitagawa to the Philippines on Thursday, expressing optimism over opportunities to bring the two countries and their peoples closer together.

In a message following their meeting, Mrs. Marcos said she enjoyed getting to know the Japanese envoy and exchanging thoughts on the friendship the two nations have built over the years.

She also expressed interest in pursuing more exchanges and new projects that would further strengthen the ties between Manila and Tokyo.

Best of Pinoy hospitality

“I look forward to more exchanges, new projects, and an even stronger friendship between the Philippines and Japan,” the First Lady said, extending a warm welcome to Kitagawa and expressing the hope that he would feel at home in the country.

Her engagement underscores the importance of nurturing bilateral relations beyond formal government engagements, with cultural understanding, personal exchanges, and cooperation serving as bridges between Filipinos and Japanese.

The Philippines and Japan share longstanding diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, with both countries continuing to explore opportunities for cooperation across various sectors.

The First Lady’s message also drew warm reactions from Filipinos, with supporters commending her approachability and public engagements, while others expressed enthusiasm over the prospect of stronger cultural exchanges and collaborative projects between the two nations.

One commenter recalled meeting Mrs. Marcos at an event in 2023, describing her as cheerful and approachable, while expressing appreciation for her initiatives for marginalized communities and persons deprived of liberty.

“I had the privilege of serving you drinks at one of our events in 2023. I was truly starstruck by how warm, cheerful, and down-to-earth you were. Maraming salamat po for your kindness and, more importantly, for everything you do to uplift the lives of our fellow Filipinos, especially those belonging to the marginalized sectors of society. Your dedication is truly inspiring,” the commenter said.

Others welcomed the prospect of expanded cultural exchanges, saying stronger Philippine-Japan relations could open more opportunities for both peoples.