Iloilo city: The local government here joined the Panay Nikkei-Jins in commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II at Sunburst Park on Friday. Nikkei-Jins are descendants of Japanese nationals born in foreign countries.

According to Philippines News Agency, currently, there are over 70 Nikkei-Jin families in Iloilo, but they are still reaching out to other families of Japanese descent, especially in remote areas. The Sunburst Park, where the restored Japanese War Dead Memorial is situated, played witness to the scars of war.

The ceremony, highlighted by the blessing and dedication of the restored war memorial, was also joined by Japanese Senator Ayaka Shiomura, Norihiro Inomata of the Philippine Nikkei-Jin Legal Support Center, surviving World War II veterans, second to fourth generation members of the Nikkei-Jin families, and former senator Franklin Drilon.

Mayor Raisa Tre±as said the gathering carries a profound meaning as they "remember the immense sacrifices, the tragedies endured and the lessons learned from one of the darkest chapters of human history." She emphasized that the memorial is a tribute to lives lost and a reminder of the resilience of peoples and nations who chose reconciliation over bitterness, and peace over conflict.

Deputy Consul-General Toshio Yadomi of the Consulate-General of Japan in Cebu remarked that the memorial 'reminds us of the tragic consequence of war.' He noted that Japan and the Philippines have chosen paths of friendship, reconciliation, and peace, which he believes is the true meaning of the commemoration. The relationship between the two countries has grown into "one of the genuine partnerships, founded on mutual trust and cooperation."

Panay Nikkei-Jin Inc. president Ma. Leah Takara de la Cruz shared that the commemoration is also part of their healing, as there are still instances of discrimination, especially among the second generation.