OSAKA, JAPAN – The Philippines demonstrated its mastery of cultural storytelling and international engagement at Expo 2025 Osaka, transforming its National Day celebration into a powerful testament to the nation’s creative spirit. The June 7 event, orchestrated by the Philippine Organizing Committee through the Department of Tourism and Tourism Promotions Board in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, delivered a meticulously crafted experience that elevated Filipino culture on the global stage.
The celebration commenced with a community parade featuring members of Japan’s Filipino diaspora in traditional attire. This opening gesture served dual purposes: honoring the overseas Filipino community while demonstrating the Philippines’ extensive cultural reach across international borders.
Following the parade, an official ceremony was held at the National Day Hall in Ray Garden. Among the dignitaries present were Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, TPB Chief Operating Officer and Secretary General of the Philippine Organizing Committee Marga Nograles, Japanese officials, and representatives from participating countries at Expo 2025 Osaka.
“Today is more than a celebration—it’s a call to rediscover the Philippines,” said Tourism Secretary Frasco. “Through every step, every thread, every note, we are reminded that our country’s greatest strength is its people—the true embodiment of strength, creativity, and deep pride.”
The Philippine Pavilion stands as perhaps the most significant architectural and cultural achievement of the country’s Expo participation. Aligned with the event’s theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives” and positioned within the Empowering Lives zone, the structure presents the Philippines’ vision of “Nature, Culture & Community — Woven Together for a Better Future.”
The pavilion’s façade represents a first in World Expo history, incorporating 212 handwoven textiles created through the largest collaboration of Filipino weavers ever assembled. The interior experience guides visitors through 18 handwoven art pieces representing each Philippine region, complemented by daily performances, digital installations including ‘Dancing with Nature,’ and thoughtfully curated spaces such as the Habi Gift Shop, Hain Takeout Counter, and Hilot Wellness Space.
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The celebration culminated in the National Day performance titled ‘Hinabing Hiraya (Woven Imagination),’ a cultural showcase featuring three curated suites:
Suite I: Hinabing Gunita (Remembrances) — highlighted ancestral traditions and weaving practices from various ethnolinguistic groups.Suite II: Matatag na Kasalukuyan (Resilient Present) — honored National Artists Ryan Cayabyab, Alice Reyes, and Larry Alcala with a modern interpretation through acappella, dance, and visual storytelling.Suite III: Hiraya ng Kinabukasan (Imagined Future) — featured high-energy performances by Lumad Basakanon, UPeepz, and the voices of Zephanie and the Loboc Children’s Choir.
As part of the National Week programming (June 7–12), the Philippines will continue to offer curated experiences and performances in the Pavilion as well as in pocket stages within the Expo. Guests are invited to explore the exhibits, interact with Filipino hospitality ambassadors, and enjoy special showcases throughout the week.
“This is our invitation to the world,” said Secretary Frasco. “Come visit our Pavilion. Come visit our country. Discover the Philippines—not just as a destination, but as an experience.”
For more information, visit www.tpb.gov.ph
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