By ROY C. MABASA
President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. will travel to Japan from May 26 to 29 for a state visit, accompanied by his wife, First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, in a trip aimed at reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
During the visit, Marcos Jr. is scheduled to make a state call on Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.
The imperial couple will host a state banquet in honor of the Philippine leader and the first lady, according to official announcements.
Marcos Jr. is also expected to hold a summit meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, where discussions are likely to focus on regional security, economic cooperation and ongoing development partnerships.
The visit underscores the Philippines’ effort to deepen its longstanding relationship with Japan, one of its key allies and largest sources of development assistance.
Officials said the trip is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
Since assuming office in 2022, Mr. Marcos has made Japan a frequent destination, visiting twice in 2023 and again in 2025, reflecting the strategic importance Manila places on its partnership with Tokyo.
AloJapan.com