MANILA, Philippines - Yoko Ono, widow of the late John Lennon of the Beatles and herself an established artist, has donated 5 million yen (P2.5 million) to children affected by storm “Ondoy” which hit the country in September last year.
In a report to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine embassy in Tokyo said Ono visited the embassy upon learning of the severe and continuing suffering of Ondoy victims.
“As a mother herself, Ms. Ono feels deep sympathy and love for suffering children,” the embassy said.
It said Ono had pledged the donation before Christmas.
Accompanying her were representatives of international media, including major Japanese newspapers and The Times of London.
Ono spent her childhood years in the magnificent mansion in Fujimi, which later became the official residence of the Philippine ambassador.
Her uncle Iwajiro Yasuda built the beautiful Iberian-style manor in 1934. He later sold the 5,000-square meter property to Philippine President Jose P. Laurel.
Mr. Yasuda was the grandson of Zenjiro Yasuda, a Japanese tycoon of that era. After World War II, the Philippine government bought the property from the Laurel family.
The historic mansion is now called the “Jewel of the Philippines.”
“The Fujimi residence is very close to my heart and I consider it my home, sweet home in Japan. I am therefore very grateful to the Philippine government for maintaining the house in a good condition all these years,” Ono said.
She visits the Fujimi residence when she comes to Japan. John Lennon and their son, Sean Lennon, also accompanied her on visits in the past. - Pia Lee-Brago