TOKYO – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos were honored with Japan’s highest imperial awards during a state call with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako held at the Imperial Palace on Wednesday.
The President received the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, the highest distinction Japan grants to foreign leaders in recognition of their significant contributions to bilateral relations and international cooperation.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos was likewise awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown, a traditional honor given to distinguished female figures during official state visits.
As a reciprocal gesture of goodwill, the Marcos couple conferred Philippine honors on the Imperial Couple—granting Emperor Naruhito the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Grand Collar (Supremo) and Empress Masako the Order of Gabriela Silang.
The Imperial Couple personally received the Philippine leader and First Lady, an uncommon honor reserved for select heads of state since the Emperor’s accession in 2019, highlighting the close ties between Japan and the Philippines.
The ceremony was attended by senior Japanese officials, including Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. It featured ceremonial military honors and the playing of both countries’ national anthems.
After introductions to members of Japan’s Cabinet and government leadership, the First Couple exchanged formal courtesies with the Imperial Family at the Take-no-Ma hall before departing.
The visit forms part of Marcos’ four-day official trip to Japan, which aims to further deepen cooperation in trade, investment, security, and defense, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two allies.
ia/xf
