Celebrating the Emperor’s 65th Birthday: A Grand Reception in Cebu City

On Friday, February 21, 2025, the Consulate-General of Japan in Cebu hosted a grand reception at the prestigious NUSTAR Resort Fili Balloon in Cebu City to celebrate the 65th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. This distinguished gathering underscored the enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines, bringing together esteemed guests from various sectors.

Among the notable attendees were Cebu City Mayor Raymond Garcia, city officials, key figures from the business community, representatives from the Philippine Department of Tourism, the Cebu Japanese Chamber of Commerce, the Japanese Association of Cebu, and major economic organizations. The event served as a testament to the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.

The entrance to the venue was adorned with the national flags of the Philippines and Japan, flanking a magnificent gold folding screen, setting an atmosphere of elegance and reverence. Consul General Matsuo and his wife graciously welcomed each guest, posing for commemorative photographs. Dressed in a stunning pale pink floral kimono, Mrs. Matsuo captivated attendees as a beautiful representation of Japanese tradition.

The evening commenced with a stirring performance of the national anthems of Japan and the Philippines by NPO Seven Spirit, fostering a profound sense of unity among the guests. A carefully curated menu of exquisite Japanese delicacies, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, and various small dishes, delighted the attendees. Complementing the culinary experience was an extensive selection of Japanese beverages, featuring "Kagatobi" sake from Ishikawa Prefecture, along with awamori, wine, and shochu.

Adding to the cultural immersion, a captivating display of bonsai and ikebana near the entrance served as a gentle reminder of Japan’s rich artistic heritage. This aesthetic showcase further enriched the event, offering guests a glimpse into the meticulous beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.

One of the evening’s notable highlights was the recognition of an important cultural milestone: the upcoming registration of "Traditional Knowledge and Techniques of Sake Brewing with Koji Mold in Japan" as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage on December 5, 2024. This distinction acknowledges the historical and cultural significance of Japan’s time-honored sake-making techniques on a global scale. The reception provided an ideal platform to celebrate this achievement, allowing guests to savor the depth and complexity of Japanese sake, awamori, and shochu while gaining a renewed appreciation for the craftsmanship and traditions behind them.

As international exchanges continue to flourish, the Consulate-General of Japan in Cebu remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening the bonds between Japan and the Philippines. Events like this reception serve as invaluable opportunities to deepen cultural understanding and foster enduring goodwill between the two nations.

With hopes for more such celebrations in the future, the Emperor’s Birthday Reception 2025 stands as a shining example of the warmth and camaraderie that define Japan-Philippines relations.