A Royal Dinner in Tokyo

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan in 1956, cooperative partnership has remained harmonious and stable. This has been characterized by numerous exchange visits that express the importance of the relationship between both countries in all aspects of mutual cooperation. The driven Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano and the personable Philippine Ambassador to Japan Domingo Siazon and his wife Kazuko Siazon drew a large gathering of guests at the Ballroom of the Hilton Hotel, Tokyo recently in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the normalization of Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and Japan and the Philippine-Japan Friendship Year.

Guests of Honor were their Imperial Highnesses Prince Hitachi, the younger brother of Emperor Akihito, and Princess Hitachi. Both are currently presidents of various societies concerned with International Exchanges, the Disabled and the Conservation of nature.

The program proper started with welcome remarks by Ambassador Siazon who spoke on the countries' shared values; that of respect for human rights, freedom of religion and a free market system. He implored the assistance of everyone to secure a better future for the Philippines and Japan in a prosperous and peaceful East Asia.

Prince Hitachi, for his part, likewise acknowledged that the relationship between the two counties has greatly developed and expanded, becoming important partners in trade and investments, tourism and culture.

Secretary Durano expounded on the countries' stronger relations through the years, not only by mutual interests in tourism and investments, trade and industry but more importantly and significantly by the strength of friendship and cooperation both countries enjoy today.

Secretary Durano also spoke on the intensified Philippine promotions in Japan with its latest campaign, "Philippines, Wellness from the Inside Out", a new campaign slogan that caters to the priorities of Japanese women such as health, beauty and mind. Japanese top model Anna Watanabe was tapped as an icon and Ambassador of Goodwill.

With the formalities over, dinner was served. Guests enjoyed a truly delectable Filipino cuisine that served Kinilaw na Tuna at Sariwang Lumpia as entrée, Tinolang Manok and for the main dish our very own Bistek Cebuano. Dessert consisted of leche flan na may mangga at bayabas with ube ice cream.

The Philippine Cultural Dance Troupe of the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies who performed popular dances such as singkil, tinikling and Pastores de Talisay, provided lively entertainment.

Jon Joven, a world class international Broadway actor and singer, together with Rachelle Gerodias, an ALIW awardee for Best Female Classical artist in the Philippines, performed a moving interpretation of the "Prayer", popularized by Andrea Bocelli, "Be My Love" by Mario Lanza and the heartwarming rendition of the Philippine patriotic song "Bayan Ko".