The sunlit halls of Hotel Okura Manila provided a fittingly elegant setting for Kaien, the ceremonial opening of Philippines–Japan Friendship Month, held on July 11, 2025. I had the pleasure of attending this intimate gathering of just 50 select guests – a celebration not just of diplomatic ties, but of cultural harmony and shared values between two nations.
Hosted in partnership with Newport World Resorts, the event was graced by H.E. Endo Kazuya, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, who captured the sentiment of the afternoon beautifully: “You can enjoy Japanese elegance and Filipino hospitality right here, without ever needing to take a flight.” His words resonated as we sat within Okura’s Yawaragi restaurant where true omotenashi was on full display.
The celebration began with the deep, resonant rhythm of Taiko drums by Manila Groove Talents – an energetic prelude that echoed centuries of Japanese tradition. Guests then joined a ceremonial sake toast, raising masu wooden cups in a symbolic gesture of unity. It was a moment of stillness and respect shared among dignitaries including Ambassador Endo and Ivannovich Dmitriv Agote of the Philippine Department of Tourism.
Among the notable attendees was Show Suzuki, a well-known Filipino-Japanese media personality. His presence added a personal dimension to the celebration, embodying the lived experience of cultural bridge-building.
You can enjoy Japanese elegance and Filipino hospitality right here, without ever needing to take a flight.
H.E. Endo Kazuya, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines
One of the most moving moments of the event was the performance by the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus. Their spirited rendition of Salamat Sa Musika, complete with choreography, brought smiles to an already vibrant celebration.
The afternoon culminated in a superbly curated Kisetsu dinner buffet, where Filipino and Japanese flavors blended seamlessly – a culinary metaphor for the enduring ties between our two countries.
Hotel Okura Manila continues to mark Friendship Month throughout July with seasonal experiences and offers that celebrate the best of Japan, right in the heart of Manila. As the venue sponsor for our own Bridges Magazine Philippines issue launch, Hotel Okura has shown time and again its commitment to fostering meaningful connections. We look forward to continuing this relationship in the spirit of mutual appreciation and cross-cultural celebration.
