TOGETHER with other world leaders, President Duterte is set to witness today the historical enthronement of Emperor Naruhito in Japan.
Aside from the enthronement ceremony, the President is also scheduled to attend two banquets —the emperor’s banquet and the prime minister’s banquet, Malacañang said.
In May this year, the 59-year-old Naruhito ascended to the throne after Emperor Emeritus Akihito step-ped down due to health concerns.
In a statement on Monday, Malacañang said it is appropriate that the President attend the ceremony given that Japan has been a special strategic partner for the country, noting that it has been its largest Official Development Assistance provider, second major trading partner, and fourth-biggest source and market for the Philippine tourism.
“The golden age of Philippines-Japan friendship has indeed started to unfold. PRRD [President Rodrigo Roa Duterte], as our Head of State, therefore believes that it is but proper to give honor to an important partner by being present at the enthronement ceremony which is considered by the Japanese to be one of their country’s most momentous events,” said Presidential Spokesman and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador S. Panelo.
The Palace said Japan also contributed largely to the country’s infrastructure development, with Japanese technology and expertise utilized to support the country’s first subway project inaugurated under the Duterte administration. Japan also “generously assisted” the government in the peace and development efforts in Mindanao, including the Marawi rehabilitation.
This is the President’s fourth visit to Japan since assuming office.
During his last working visit to Tokyo in May, the Philippines had secured 26 business deals worth P288 billion, which were projected to create 82,737 jobs in the country.
“The signing of these business agreements clearly shows Japan’s vote of confidence in our President’s method of governance, as well as in our country’s economic prospects at present,” Panelo said.
Together with the President on the Japan trip is a “lean delegation,” according to the Palace.
The President is expected to be back in the country by October 24.
Other foreign dignitaries expected to attend the enthronement ceremony are Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, US Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, Britain’s Prince Charles, Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia.