On November 8, 2023, the Philippines-Japan Economic Cooperation Committee, Inc. (PHILJEC) commemorated its 50th Foundation Anniversary with a grand celebration at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Guests were warmly welcomed into the Grand Ballroom by PHILJEC officials: Chairman Richard Albert I. Osmond, Co-Chairman Alfred V. Ty, and Co-Chairman Ferdinand A. Ferrer. The evening began with cocktails, followed by a formal reception. The venue was adorned with congratulatory flower stands from ten PHILJEC trustees and President Shigeru Shimoda of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (JCCIPI), reflecting the strong support from both Filipino and Japanese stakeholders.
Chairman Osmond opened the program with his welcome remarks, setting the tone for the evening. He was followed by messages from distinguished guests: H.E. KOSHIKAWA Kazuhiko, Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Philippines, and Mr. Francis C. Laurel, former PHILJEC Chairman (2005-2008).
In his speech, Mr. Osmond reflected on the deep-rooted history of Philippines-Japan relations, stating, “…the friendship and business cooperation between Japan and the Philippines started way beyond 50 years ago. The bigger interesting challenge is the next 50 years ahead as the world is drastically changing in terms of its climate, economic and business landscape, and culture.”
Ambassador Koshikawa expressed his hopes for the continued strengthening of bilateral ties, emphasizing PHILJEC’s role in fostering collaboration. “I do hope that as PHILJEC continues its legacy, more and more Japanese companies will create lasting impact on the Philippine society. Together, we will strengthen and take advantage of our Golden Age of partnership, fifty years and beyond,” he said.
Mr. Laurel highlighted the growing synergy between the two nations and PHILJEC’s pivotal role in nurturing this relationship. “Our efficiency and effectiveness has been proven through the years. The leadership of PHILJEC is remarkable and outstanding. It is therefore with great pride that we all celebrate PHILJEC’s 50th anniversary,” he remarked.
Video messages from Her Excellency Mylene J. Garcia-Albano, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Philippines to Japan, and Mr. HIRAKO Yuji, Chairman of the Japan-Philippines Economic Cooperation Committee, were also shared during the program.
Co-Chairman Ferrer led a celebratory toast, followed by dinner and a musical performance by the LG Strings Trio. Guests were treated to a commemorative video showcasing PHILJEC’s milestones, past chairmen, and joint meetings — highlighting the organization’s rich history and achievements.
The event was concluded with closing remarks from Co-Chairman Ty, who expressed his gratitude to Japan and its people for their friendship with the Philippines and the Filipinos. At the end, he said, “Our journey of economic cooperation has come a long way. I am confident, however, that even better days lie ahead for our relationship. I thank the Japanese people for extending their hand of friendship and I know we, Filipinos, will continue to extend our hand, too. As we look ahead, I believe that our enduring ties of the last 50 years will become only stronger and deeper.”
Welcome Remarks of Mr. Richard Albert I. Osmond
Message from H. E. Mylene J. Garcia-Albano
Message from H. E. KOSHIKAWA Kazuhiko
Message from Mr. HIRAKO Yuji
Message from Mr. Francis C. Laurel
Closing Remarks of Mr. Alfred V. Ty
