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Consul General of Japan to Davao, Hirotaka Ono
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Flashed on the video screen for the entire ballroom to see was a Japanese “Shimenawa” rope, subliminally projecting the number 70, and flanked with two sun symbols, one of the Philippines and the other of Japan.
“It embodies seven powerful decades of Japan and the Philippines’ journey as friends, a friendship woven from threads of hope and mutual respect. Together, these two ropes meld in this true expression of unity. The 'Shimenawa' rope is traditionally used to mark sacred spaces and is used for protection and to symbolize continuity. The symbol significantly captures the 2026 theme of "Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities," shared the Consul General of Japan to Davao, Hirotaka Ono, in his welcome address.
The affair? The Consulate General of Japan in Davao recently hosted the National Day Reception to celebrate the 66th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan on February 19, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, where the Consul General of Japan to Davao and Mrs. ONO Hirotaka welcomed guests from Davao’s Japanese descendants, business and academic institutions, the Consular Corps, local government officials, and tourism stakeholders.
It was a reception where guests were transported to Japan over authentic servings of sushi, soba, sake, and Japanese wine.
The ceremony also celebrated the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. On this auspicious affair, the host looked back on the two countries’ lasting partnership.
Further enriching the affair was the Consul General's historical overview of the region, which highlighted the deep relationship between Japan and Mindanao. It was 123 years ago, in 1905, when the Japanese migration to Mindanao began and Davao was referred to as “Little Tokyo.”
“Over the years, the Japanese migrants contributed to the local economy and society, growing abaca and building thriving communities. Before the Pacific War, more than 20,000 Japanese lived in Davao, leaving a lasting legacy of dedication, skill, and community spirit. Moreover, the strong ties between Japan and Mindanao exist thanks to the unwavering support of all of you gathered here today, through your efforts in economic relations, cultural and educational exchanges, and people-to-people connections. Our partnership with this region comes alive in the many collaborations and initiatives on display this evening,” said Consul General Hirotaka Ono as he directed the guests’ attention to the various organizations from Japan and the Philippines exhibiting industrial, food and beverage, educational, and tourism products.
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| A toast to an enduring relationship between Japan & the Philippines. Consul General of Japan to Davao, ONO Hirotaka, with Davao City Councilor Rachel Zozobrado |
Davao City Mayor’s Sebastian Duterte message, through Councilor Rachel Zozobrado, extended his gratitude to the Consulate General of Japan in Davao, Davao’s sister cities, and steadfast partners in Japan for their vital contributions to the people of Davao City. “Beyond historical ties, our shared heritage continues to shape the identity of our city into what it is today. Daghang salamat for your continued commitment to further sustainable growth and progress in our communities,” delivered the Davao City mayor.
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| Japanese brand, Yakult, taking part in the exhibition |
Seen at the affair:
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| Consul General Hirotaka Ono & Teresita Ono with the author |
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| Deputy Consul General Junya Inoue & Masami Inoue |
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| Consulate General of Japan in Davao Vice Consul Airi Nakata and Vice Consul Kentaro Yoshimatsu, with Natsumi Ono |
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| Satoshi Matsukawa of JICA & Karoru Nori of Saitama University |
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| Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Davao Agus Trenggono, DOT-XI Regional Diretor Tanya Tan & Consul General of Malaysia in Davao Deddy Faisal |
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| Cultural exchange ceremony. Yuta Toyai, Assistant Chief International Affairs Division of Hamamatsu City receiving a Philippine traditional musical instrument from DepED |
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| Cathy Bangayan, Ruben Bangayan & Hiroyushi Kawashima |
