MALACAÑANG on Monday, April 29, expressed hope that there would be a "golden age" for the Philippines-Japan ties under the reign of Crown Prince Naruhito, who is set to assume the symbolic role as Tokyo's emperor.
In a statement, Presidentjal Spokesperson Salvador Panelo took note that Japan is the Philippines's "friend, closer even than a brother," under the watch of President Rodrigo Duterte.
He hailed Japan’s $9-billion investment and aid package for the Philippines as the "largest amount the Japanese government has committed for a single country."
"We remain confident that the assumption of Crown Prince Naruhito would augur well for Philippines-Japan relations," Panelo said.
"We hope to build the 'golden age' for Philippines-Japan strategic partnership during the reign of the new Emperor," he added.
Naruhito will be enthroned as Japan's emperor, replacing his 85-year-old father, outgoing Emperor Akihito, the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in 200 years.
Panelo said the Palace felt "melancholic" about the abdication of Akihito, who he stressed is considered a "good friend of the Philippines."
Akihito and his wife, Empress Michiko, first met Duterte in 2016 when they visited the Philippines to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of Philippines-Japan diplomatic relations.
"As we recall, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte was humbled and pleased by the singular honor of meeting His Majesty at the Imperial Palace two years ago where he personally extended his gratitude for the kindness and compassion of the Emperor, together with his wife," Panelo said.
"But he (Akihito) has made a decision and we can only respect it and wish him well with whatever awaits him after he leaves the throne," the Palace official added. (Ruth Abbey Gita/SunStar Philippines)