By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos were conferred Japan’s highest honors during a state call on Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Wednesday.
Marcos received the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, the most prestigious state decoration awarded to foreign heads of state, royalty, and distinguished leaders in recognition of exceptional service and contributions to Japan.
The Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown, traditionally bestowed on female members of foreign royal families and high-ranking women dignitaries during state visits, was conferred on the First Lady.
The First Couple reciprocated the gesture, conferring the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Supremo or Grand Collar on Emperor Naruhito and the Order of Gabriela Silang on Empress Masako.
During the state call, the Imperial Couple extended a warm welcome to the President and the First Lady, a rare honor accorded by Japan to select foreign leaders.
Marcos is the third world leader to be received in a state call since the Emperor’s accession to the throne in 2019, underscoring the strengthening diplomatic relations and strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan.
The Imperial Couple hosted ceremonial rites attended by Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
The ceremony included the playing of the Philippine and Japanese national anthems and the rendering of military honors.
The President and the First Lady, together with members of the Philippine delegation, were introduced to members of the Japanese Cabinet and other government officials.
The state call was held at the Take-no-Ma or Imperial Palace Audience Room, where the leaders exchanged pleasantries.
The Imperial Couple later escorted the First Couple to the porch before bidding them farewell.
Marcos is currently in Tokyo for a four-day state visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Japan in trade, investment, security, and defense.
The visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries. (PNA)
