Harmony of Friendship’ Celebrates 70 Years of Japan-Philippines Relations in Cebu

Japanese and Filipino leaders and locals came together to celebrate, as jazz filled the Cebu Provincial Capitol in a spirit of friendship

In 2026, Japan and the Philippines mark a major milestone, the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations. As a prelude to this anniversary year, a jazz concert titled “Harmony of Friendship” was held on January 23, 2026, at the Cebu Provincial Capitol.

This report looks back on a moving evening that reaffirmed the strong bond between the two countries through the power of music.　

A Prelude Weaving 70 Years of Bonds and Carrying Them into the Future

Since the normalization of diplomatic relations in 1956, Japan and the Philippines have built a deep bond of trust based on “heart-to-heart” connections. The theme for the 70th anniversary in 2026 is:

“Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities.”

　

The concert opened with remarks from Consul General Ueno of the Consulate General of Japan in Cebu  and Mr. Ben Suzuki, Director of The Japan Foundation, Manila . They shared heartfelt messages highlighting the significance of the 70th anniversary and the power of music to connect hearts beyond words.

Japanese and Filipino Top Musicians Perform Together: Soul-Stirring Jazz

The stage was graced by top performers from the ‘ Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival’ leaders of the jazz scenes in Japan and the Philippines.

Leading the lineup was Japan-based vocalist Charito, who performs internationally, joined by Yukii Arimasa (piano),  Satsuki Kusunoi (bass), and Daiki Kitazawa (drums).

• Charito – Vocals
  A Philippines-born singer based in Japan with an international career. She is also the founder of the Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival (TMJAF) and is known as a bridge between Japan and the Philippines.
• Yukii Arimasa – Piano
  A world-class pianist and graduate of Berklee College of Music, he captivates audiences with his delicate yet dynamic performances.
• Satsuki Kusunoi – Bass
  A highly skilled bassist supporting and shaping the Japanese jazz scene.
• Daiki Kitazawa – Drums
  An internationally active drummer with extensive experience performing in the United States.

In the first half of the concert, the jazz trio performed the late Ryuichi Sakamoto’s iconic piece, Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence. Their delicate yet bold arrangement created a one-of-a-kind moment, where Japanese sensibilities blended seamlessly with jazz rhythms, melting into the night in Cebu.

In the second half, the energy in the venue reached its peak as Charito joined the stage. She performed beloved Filipino classics, including “Buhat,” and the musicians’ mutual respect during improvisation perfectly reflected the spirit of dialogue that Japan and the Philippines have built over the years.

Sharing a Moment of Warm Hospitality with Local Leaders

At the Social Hall of the Cebu Provincial Capitol, numerous local leaders attended, including Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” M. Ouano, Mayor of Mandaue City, the president of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Cebu (JCCI-Cebu), and the president of the Japanese Association Cebu (JAC). Alongside many Filipino and Japanese audience members, they all listened together to the same melodies.

As the concert’s lingering notes filled the air, guests were treated to Japanese cuisine, including sushi, prepared by Cebu’s long-established restaurant Ichiriki Chaya. The attentive omotenashi, or Japanese-style hospitality, warmed everyone’s hearts, creating a relaxed moment of交流 that transcended government, business, and national boundaries.

2026: Moving Forward to a Brighter Melody of Hope

In her official message for the 70th anniversary, Charito reflected on the spirit of jazz: “True connection exists in the spaces between the notes. Likewise, our future is found in these quiet, connected moments of everyday life.” Her words beautifully captured the enduring bond between Japan and the Philippines.

The Cebu performance marked the first major step in celebrating the 2026 anniversary year. The harmony of music, Japanese spirit, and smiling faces created a night that became a bright and hopeful beginning for the next 70 years of Japan-Philippines relations.

Event Details: Organizer & Venue