As Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai approaches, key stakeholders from both the Philippines and Japan have shared powerful messages of innovation and resilience, reflecting the strength and momentum of a “golden-age” in Philippines-Japan relations.
“In recent years, Japan-Philippines relations have made remarkable progress in various areas such as security, economy, and people-to-people exchanges. Breaking new grounds in cooperation, Japan-Philippine relations have entered their Golden Age with renewed closeness. Our ties have grown from strength to strength, strategically embracing realities toward mutual prosperity,” said Ambassador Endo Kazuya of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines.
In recent years, Japan-Philippines relations have made remarkable progress in various areas such as security, economy, and people-to-people exchanges.
Ambassador Endo Kazuya of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines
At the business level, Japanese institutions have played a vital role in supporting innovation and expanding ties between both nations.
“Collaborating with local accelerators, government agencies, universities, and research institutions, JETRO supports innovation initiatives and aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Japanese businesses operating in the Philippines,” shared Kazuo Nakamura, Executive Director of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Philippines.
“Through initiatives like the joint bilateral meetings with the Japan Chamber, PHILJEC plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the business communities of the Philippines and Japan, ensuring long-term growth for both economies,” said Richard Osmond, Chairman of the Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee, Inc. (PHILJEC).
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has long championed inclusive growth in the Philippines by focusing on capacity building and people-centered development.
“I am proud to say that one of our most impactful tools to achieve this is through our people-to-people exchange scheme. Through long-standing programs such as scholarships for Filipino professionals and training in Japan, we equip local partners with the skills, know-how, and positive mindset that create the leaders of the next generation,” noted Chief Representative BABA Takashi of JICA.
“We at JICA are witnesses to the inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development in the Philippines resulting from our persevering cooperation,” he added.
We at JICA are witnesses to the inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development in the Philippines resulting from our persevering cooperation.
Chief Representative BABA Takashi of JICA
Beyond the national government and major Japanese agencies, Japanese companies continue to deepen their long-term commitments to the Philippines.
“Our mission has always been to match the Philippines’ needs with Japanese innovation — whether through building essential infrastructure like telecommunication towers or introducing Japanese standards in real estate development,” said Ryosuke Gokyu, President of Sojitz Philippines.
“The success of Epson in the Philippines is due to strategic decision-making that prioritized efficiency, high-quality production, and long-term investments in local workforce development,” said Irie Yushi of Epson Precision Philippines Inc.
On the Filipino side, government agencies are equally focused on innovation and regional empowerment, especially in areas where Japan’s cooperation and standards have created strong foundations.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) continues to prioritize research, innovation, and local capacity-building as pillars of national development. With support from Japan through scholarships, equipment grants, and joint R&D, DOST’s initiatives align closely with global trends in inclusive innovation.
“Innovation should focus on addressing societal challenges and creating impact at the grassroots level,” said a DOST representative, reinforcing the department’s ongoing push for applied science and technology solutions across communities.
In the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT) is reshaping perceptions and promoting investment-led peace.
“Attracting Investments and Promoting Peace, MTIT-BARMM is actively working to counter the perception of being a high-risk area for investments,” said Shamera Abobakar, Director of the Bureau of Investments.
“Having positive publications or news about MTIT-BARMM can help us counter these negative images. The BARMM now is considered one of the most peaceful regions in the country.”
Together, these voices form a compelling narrative of collaboration. As the Philippines prepares to take center stage at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, this dynamic partnership with Japan reflects a shared vision of innovation, inclusivity, and mutual prosperity. Echoing the pavilion’s theme “Empowering Communities through Innovation” the insights from government leaders, agencies, and industry pioneers highlight how the Philippines is not only showcasing its resilience but also reaffirming its deep and evolving ties with Japan on the global stage.
