TOKYO – The Philippine national dress and sartorial traditions were proudly represented at the 72nd Yokohama Port Festival International Costume Parade held on May 3 in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture.
Members of the Filipino community, including officers, members, and volunteers of the Japan Philippine Cultural Exchange Organization (JPCEO), showcased a dazzling array of attire inspired by Philippine traditional clothing from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Adorned in vibrant colors and intricate designs, these ensembles beautifully depicted the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
This marked the second year since the pandemic that the Philippines participated in the parade. The participants received warm support from the enthusiastic viewers, who cheered them on as they paraded through the streets of Yokohama.
As of June 2023, there are an estimated 9,000 Filipinos in Yokohama City and more than 25,000 in the entire Kanagawa Prefecture.
“I sincerely thank the Filipino community for representing our country in this year’s Yokohama Parade. This is a fitting prelude to the celebration of Philippine Heritage Month, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship between the Filipino and Japanese peoples,” Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano remarked.
The Yokohama Port Festival International Costume Parade is a signature event during Yokohama’s Golden Week, commemorating the opening of the port. Featuring approximately 60 groups, including marching bands and dance teams, the parade winds its way from Yamashita Park to Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and through the bustling Isezaki-cho district. - PE Tokyo
(Photos courtesy of April Yuson Berdal)
