Japanese Princess Takamado graced the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka on July 7, marking a momentous occasion for cultural diplomacy and deepening ties between Japan and the Philippines.
The Princess, known for her enduring relationship with the Philippines — including her role as Honorary President of photography competition Japan Through Diplomats’ Eyes and for gracing cultural events at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo with her presence — was welcomed by Ambassador Mylene Garcia‑Albano, Consul General Voltaire Mauricio, and Pavilion Manager Raquel Tria-Joya.
Japanese Princess Takamado admires the pavilion’s woven façade showcasing 212 indigenous fabrics and the immersive display of 18 handwoven artworks inside. PHOTO FROM TOURISM PROMOTIONS BOARD
“We are immensely honored to have Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado at our Pavilion. Her presence highlights our collective effort to foster goodwill and mutual understanding through art, culture, and diplomacy between our two countries. We thank Her Imperial Highness for her continuing support to our Embassy’s cultural initiatives,” Ambassador Garcia‑Albano said in a statement.
The Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka dubbed “Women” is a vivid showcase of the country’s theme, “Nature, Culture & Community: Woven Together for a Better Future.” In line with the Expo’s vision of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” the Pavilion brings together tradition, innovation, and genuine human connection. It features interactive AI installations like Dancing with Nature, and daily cultural performances.
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The Princess admired the pavilion’s woven façade showcasing 212 indigenous fabrics, experienced the immersive display of 18 handwoven artworks inside, and witnessed a vibrant cultural dance performance. At the close of her visit, the Princess met Kokoro‑chan, the pavilion’s tarsier mascot, which represents the smallest primate in the world, endemic to the Philippines. She was also honored with three handmade gifts: a rattan-woven scarf, a bag with woven details, and a Tangkulo scarf.
“It is a well-thought-of pavilion. From the handwoven artworks that show how the Philippines has so much to offer, to the façade that truly showcases sustainability,” Princess Takamado said.
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Princess Takamado’s visit underscores the enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines. The Pavilion’s focus on weaving as a cultural metaphor — uniting nature, culture, and community — resonates deeply with both countries’ dedication to preserving heritage while looking to a creative, shared future. Her presence at the Pavilion reinforces the positive reception of the Philippines at the Expo and strengthens ongoing cultural and tourism collaborations.
“Princess Takamado’s presence reminds us that tourism is more than travel; it is a bridge that connects cultures and nurtures partnerships. Through policies that champion sustainable and community-based tourism, we hope to inspire more Japanese visitors to discover the many reasons to love the Philippines,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia‑Frasco.
Tourism Promotions Board COO Marga Nograles added, “We are deeply honored by Princess Takamado’s visit to ‘Woven.’ Her appreciation for our Pavilion’s theme — Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future — reinforces our commitment to share the Filipino story through craft, creativity, and meaningful human connection.”
