The PJLA Visits Ugu Bigyan Potter’s Garden and Restaurant

April 25, 2024by secretariat in PJLA

🌿✨ A Day of Art, Culture, and Friendship ✨🌿

The Philippines-Japan Ladies Association, Inc. recently enjoyed a delightful visit to Ugu Bigyan Potter’s Garden and Restaurant in Tiaong, Quezon—a hidden gem where art, nature, and culinary excellence come together.

Surrounded by lush gardens and inspiring pottery creations, members explored the beautiful grounds and gained a deeper appreciation for Filipino craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The highlight of the day was a sumptuous garden feast, featuring local flavors served on handcrafted pottery, making the dining experience truly unique and memorable.

As the day drew to a close, the members departed with more than souvenirs and photographs. They carried with them lasting memories of beauty and inspiration—a renewed appreciation for Filipino artistry, a deeper connection with fellow members, and a shared experience that will be fondly remembered for years to come.

PJS holds Welcome Reception for H.E. Endo Kazuya

April 23, 2024by secretariat in PJS tagged ENDO Kazuya, Welcome Reception

The Philippines-Japan Society, Inc. (PJS) held a welcome reception for the newly appointed Japan Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Endo Kazuya last April 19, 2024 at the Grand Pavilion of the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City.

Mr. Francis C. Laurel, PJS President, welcomed Amb. Endo in the opening remarks he gave to start the event. H.E. Endo, delivered a message to the attendees as a response to the reception.

Amb. Endo highlighted in his speech the extent of the flourishing partnership the Philippines and Japan have cultivated through the years, from economy, people to people exchanges, and at present extending to defense and security. He expressed his wish for the strong bond between the two countries to reach greater heights, “As our strategic partnership continues to evolve, I hope to find in every one of you a partner in building a more prosperous and sustainable future for our people.” In closing his message, he acknowledged the efforts and support of the people involved in the continuous growth of the Philippines and Japan’s partnership, “I would like to express my deep appreciation to all of you in this room for your warm support, friendship, and commitment to strengthening the ties between Japan and the Philippines.”

Prestigious guests graced the event including Mr. Ramon S. Ang, President and CEO of San Miguel Corporation; Mr. Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime; Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman, President, and CEO of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation; and Mr. Edgar O. Chua, Chairman of the Makati Business Club. The LG Strings played the music accompaniment during the dinner.

Corporate Secretary Atty. Jose Vicente E. Jimenez served as the master of ceremonies for the event. Mr. Gerard B. Sanvictores, PJS Vice-President, concluded the night with his closing remarks.

References:
Welcome Remarks by Mr. Francis Laurel
Speech of Ambassador ENDO Kazuya
Closing Remarks by Mr. Gerard Sanvictores
Photos

The 40th PHILJEC and JPECC joint meeting forges stronger Japan-Philippines relations for the next decade

April 15, 2024by secretariat in JPECC, PHILJEC tagged 40th PHILJEC-JPECC Joint Meeting, JOINT MEETING, JPECC

The Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee, Inc. (PHILJEC) and its counterpart, the Japan-Philippines Economic Cooperation Committee (JPECC), held their 40^th annual joint meeting on March 15, 2024, at the Grand Hyatt Manila, Bonifacio Global City. Themed “Stronger Philippines-Japan Relations in the Next 10 Years – Japan, a Strategic Partner of the Philippines”, the meeting was structured into four plenary sessions: (1) CREATE Law – Enhancing Philippine Competitiveness; (2) Large-Scale Food Production Imperatives for the Philippines; (3) Harnessing Filipino Human Resources; and (4) Triggers for Increased Japanese Investments in the Philippines. The Meeting was keynoted by BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona. Congratulatory Messages from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio were also received.

The 40-man JPECC delegation was headed by Mr. HIRAKO Yuji, Vice-Chairman of ANA Holdings, Corporation. A day before the Meeting, PHILJEC arranged a courtesy call by JPECC on Transport Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and the Department of Transport Management Team composed of the Department’s five Undersecretaries.

In his welcome remarks, PHILJEC Chairman and Science Park of the Philippines Inc. President Richard I. Osmond said that “the friendship and business cooperation between Japan and the Philippines started way beyond 50 years ago” while noting that the two countries’ relations face “bigger challenges as the world is drastically changing in terms of its climate, economic and business landscape, and culture.” In his response, JPECC Chairman Hirako noted that there are now over 200,000 Filipinos working in Japan, a number that is expected to steadily increase in view of Japan’s ageing and declining population. He expressed hope that highly skilled Filipino professionals will gain meaningful, long-term employment in Japan.

PHILJEC was established 50 years ago (1974) and has since served as the primary counterpart of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Keidanren (Japan Business Federation) and Keizai Douyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives). PHILJEC Chairman Osmond heads a 10-man Board assisted by his two co-Chairmen Alfred V. Ty, Chairman of Toyota Motor Philippines, Inc. and Ferdinand A. Ferrer, President CEO of Gruppo EMS and Chairman of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines, Inc. (SEIPI).

Reference Materials

PJLA Welcomes Madame Akiko Endo

April 11, 2024by secretariat in PJLA

The Philippines-Japan Ladies Association, Inc. warmly welcomed Madame Akiko Endo, wife of the Japan Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Endo Kazuya.

It was a great honor and privilege to receive Madame Endo and celebrate her gracious presence at our gathering. Her visit highlighted the enduring friendship and strong cultural ties between the Philippines and Japan. We look forward to fostering meaningful exchanges and strengthening the bonds of goodwill and cooperation between our two nations.

Madame Akiko Endo and PJLA President Dra. Nora Torres

April 2024 Induction and Birthday Celebration

April 11, 2024by secretariat in PJLA

PJLA Welcomes New Members and Celebrates Birthdays in April 2024

PJLA warmly welcomed new members in a special event held at the Philippines-Japan Friendship Center in Legazpi Village, Makati City last April 11, 2024. The association introduced Ms. Valeria Sonia Lyn Agrava-Laurel, Ms. Madeleine Sophie Tan, Ms. Misao Sumulong, and Atty. Maria Melva Valdez as the newest additions to their growing community. The event commenced with opening remarks from PJLA President, Dra. Nora Torres, followed by a warm greeting from Madame Akiko Endo to the association members. To conclude the gathering, PJLA Adviser, Mrs. Minnie Alcasid, delivered the closing remarks. The event was filled with warmth and camaraderie, highlighting the strong bonds within the association as they continue to foster friendship and cultural exchange between the Philippines and Japan.

The gathering also served as a dual celebration, honoring members who had birthdays from January to April with colorful birthday hats.