Maayong Adlaw!

This year marks the 120th anniversary of the Japanese migration to Davao. The Japanese immigrants who devoted their lives here are said to have contributed significantly to the growth of this amazingly beautiful city of Davao. First of all, I am so proud of them and I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest respect to our ancestors.

At the same time, I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the Davaoeños who have showed their friendship and cooperation to the Japanese people throughout the years in spite of the regrettable period in our past. We should all pause, close our eyes and appreciate how precious the peace is we are experiencing now.

The current relations between Davao and Japan are as excellent as ever in many fields. I am extremely optimistic that trade, investment, tourism, culture and education will be further boosted in the years to come. Human exchanges in various fields, especially among the youths, are crucially important for our bright future. I hope the 120th anniversary will be an excellent occasion for the promotion of our human exchanges.

Daghang salamat. (Sponsored content)