Life Today PH

MANILA — Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines ENDO Kazuya honored four individuals and one organization for their contributions to strengthening Japan-Philippines relations during a ceremony at his residence.

The recipients received the Ambassador’s Commendation for their respective contributions to fostering closer ties and mutual understanding between the two countries.

Among the awardees was Nobuo Fujii, Director and Advisor of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (JCCIPI).

Fujii was recognized for his longstanding contribution to the smooth operations of Japanese companies and residents in the Philippines through his activities with the JCCIPI, as well as for promoting greater mutual understanding between Japan and the Philippines.

Dr. Nora Torres, President of the Philippines-Japan Ladies Association (PJLA), was also honored for her contribution to bilateral relations.

Torres has served as PJLA president since 2019, with the organization continuing to foster friendly relations between the Philippines and Japan.

Also recognized were Filipino language teachers Bendette McFarland and Thelma Cleto-Salumbides for their contributions to developing specialized Filipino-language human resources among Japanese diplomats and Foreign Service Specialists.

McFarland has served as a Filipino language instructor for Japanese Foreign Service Specialists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Institute for Training.

Cleto-Salumbides has likewise taught Filipino to many learners, including Japanese Foreign Service Specialists in the Philippines, contributing to the development of specialized human resources in the Filipino language.

The Philippine Bonsai Society, Inc. was also among the recipients.

Established in 1973, the organization has been a leading bonsai organization in the Philippines, promoting and developing the Japanese art of bonsai in the country.

The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines congratulated all recipients of the Ambassador’s Commendation and expressed hope for their continued partnership in elevating Japan-Philippines ties.