Manila: The House of Representatives on Tuesday adopted House Resolution 1274 commemorating the 70th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan. The resolution was introduced by Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III, House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos, and Minority Leader Rep. Marcelino Libanan.
According to Philippines News Agency, HR 1274 recognized the enduring friendship between the two countries and the transformation of their relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership. The measure traced the formal establishment of diplomatic relations to July 23, 1956, following the entry into force of the San Francisco Peace Treaty and the Reparations Agreement.
The resolution acknowledges 2026 as the Philippines-Japan Friendship Year under the theme, 'Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities.' It described Japan as one of the Philippines' leading development partners in infrastructure modernization, industrial growth, technological advancement, and disaster preparedness.
The resolution specifically cited significant infrastructure projects such as the Metro Manila Subway and North-South Commuter Railway and highlighted Japan's extensive Official Development Assistance programs. 'This anniversary honors a friendship that produces practical results for our people, from faster transportation and stronger disaster response to scholarships, jobs, and improved maritime security. We are preserving a valuable partnership while building opportunities for the next generation,' Rep. Marcos added.
Educational and cultural exchanges were also emphasized through programs like the Japanese Government Scholarship Program and the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET), noting that 67 young Filipinos joined the JET Program in 2025, and a record 888,000 Filipino travelers visited Japan. The resolution also recognized Japan's contribution of patrol vessels to the Philippine Coast Guard, the signing of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement, and the Philippines' ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement.
Furthermore, the resolution acknowledged cooperation in renewable energy, environmental protection, parliamentary dialogue, and the contributions of Filipino and Japanese communities as bridges between the two countries. It directed that a copy be furnished to the Government of Japan through the Embassy of Japan in Manila.
