By Len Armea
OSAKA – A vibrant mix of color, music and tradition filled Expo 2025 on Yumeshima Island as the Philippines marked its National Day on June 7. More than just a ceremony, the event became a lively showcase of the country’s spirit, demonstrating the Filipino people’s unity, resilience and creativity.
Spearheaded by the Philippine Organizing Committee (POC) through the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), and in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the celebration highlighted Filipino heritage through an impressive exhibit, community activities, and captivating performances that left Philippine and Japanese officials, and both local and international guests, amazed.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized the importance of showcasing the nation’s cultural identity on the world stage and how this vision came to life through the creation of the Philippine Pavilion.
“It has been the mission of the Department of Tourism to bring the Filipino identity to the world as a vibrant tapestry, woven by centuries of influence, shaped by our many islands and ethno-linguistic communities held together by the shared spirit of resilience, warmth and pride,” Frasco said in her remarks during the ceremony at the National Day Hall in Ray Garden.
The Philippines’ participation at Expo 2025 underscores its commitment to cultural diplomacy and regional cooperation. Located in the “Empowering Lives” zone, the Philippine Pavilion embodies the Expo’s overarching theme: “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”
Commissioner General Koji Haneda of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition thanked the Philippine government for its participation, highlighting the enduring alliance between the two countries as they commemorate 70 years of diplomatic ties.
“In this year’s exhibition, the themes of nature, culture and community are closely integrated with the future. The Philippine Pavilion showcases the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage, enhanced through digital technology.
“Through these meaningful exhibits, I hope Filipino children will have more opportunities to connect and communicate with the world,” Haneda said.
Read the full article in the June 2025 issue of the Filipino-Japanese Journal, out now in Japan.
(Photo by Din Eugenio)
