OSAKA – The Philippines opened its pavilion at Expo 2025 on April 13, welcoming a wave of visitors eager to experience one of the most anticipated national exhibits of the year.
Built around the theme “Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future,” the pavilion offers a rich sensory journey that highlights Filipino traditions while embracing innovation. From the moment visitors approached the entrance, the energy was unmistakable.
The pavilion’s striking façade, created from 212 indigenous fabrics woven by Filipino artisans, moved gently in the spring air, symbolizing the vibrancy and resilience of Filipino culture. Lead designer Carlo Calma said the design was meant to be alive, just like the stories it represents.
“We wanted the structure itself to breathe and move with the stories it holds,” Calma said. “It reflects who we are as Filipinos, always in motion, always evolving, always expressive.”
Inside, visitors explored 18 woven art pieces representing the different regions of the Philippines. Each work, made with traditional and unconventional materials like abaca, cotton, candy wrappers, and chicken feathers, came to life through carefully choreographed light, sound, and projection.
Among the highlights is “Dancing with Nature,” an interactive experience that transforms guests into fluttering leaves, blooming flowers, or swimming fish. Developed with international design studio Tellart, the installation invites visitors to see themselves as part of the natural world and part of the Filipino story.
Daily performances by artists from the Cultural Center of the Philippines added even more heart to the pavilion, blending music, dance, and storytelling.
Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, chief operating officer of the Tourism Promotions Board and secretary general of the Philippine Organizing Committee, said the response from opening day visitors was overwhelming.
“Seeing so many visitors moved by our stories, our traditions, and our people, it’s the strongest reminder of why we are here: to connect through culture and to showcase the heart of the Filipino spirit to the world,” she said.
According to the DOT, the pavilion welcomed 40,252 visitors in the first nine days since its opening.
The pavilion’s debut also marks an important milestone as the Philippines and Japan celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations.
“The pavilion goes beyond being a cultural showcase, it’s a heartfelt expression of friendship, respect, and shared aspirations with our Japanese partners,” said Ambassador Mylene Garcia-Albano.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized that the pavilion reflects the Philippines’ approach to sustainable tourism, blending heritage with community empowerment.
“We hope to inspire travelers to explore our 7,641 islands, experience the depth of our culture, marvel at the excellence of Filipino creativity, and be moved by the stories of triumph and resilience of our communities,” she said.
The pavilion’s journey will continue beyond Expo 2025. Its façade and major installations will be preserved and displayed at the National Museum of the Philippines.
Additional experiences, including the Habi Gift Shop, a Hilot Wellness Space, and the Hain Takeout Counter, will open in the coming days. Pavilion mascot Kokoro-chan, a symbol of Filipino warmth and curiosity, will also be making its first appearance.
“We invite the world to not only see the Philippines, but to feel it,” added Nograles. “From every thread on our façade to every story told inside, this pavilion is our invitation to connect, heart to heart, culture to culture.”
In Manila, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who is on an official visit, expressed hope that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would visit Japan and explore the Expo.
“This year, the Filipino pavilion is becoming a popular destination for visitors so I also look forward to welcoming you to visit the Osaka Expo soon,” the Japanese premier told the Filipino leader during their bilateral meeting at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday. - PR/FJJ
(Photos courtesy of Tourism Promotions Board)
