Hotel Okura Manila, Newport World Resorts celebrate PH-Japan Friendship Month

HOTEL Okura Manila, in partnership with Newport World Resorts, hosted an intimate gathering of distinguished guests for “Kaien,” the official opening of Philippines-Japan Friendship Month on July 11, 2025.

The event was graced by Kazuya Endo, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, alongside Ivannovich Dmitriv Agote, OIC-assistant regional director of the Department of Tourism NCR.

The event was attended by leaders and senior representatives from esteemed Japanese institutions across the corporate, media and diplomatic sectors. Show Suzuki, a well-known Filipino Japanese media personality and host, also attended the event.

A TOAST TO FRIENDSHIP (From left) John Lucas, Nilo Rodriguez, Ambassador Kazuya Endo, Ivannovich Agote and Jan Marshall raise a sake toast with traditional masu cups at Hotel Okura Manila’s Yawaragi restaurant. PHOTO FROM HOTEL OKURA MANILA

The afternoon opened with a stirring Taiko drum performance by Manila Groove Talents, setting a vibrant tone for the celebration. Key representatives from Newport World Resorts and Hotel Okura Manila shared messages of friendship, followed by a ceremonial sake toast, where VIPs raised traditional masu wooden cups on stage in a symbolic gesture of unity.

The program concluded with a moving performance from the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus, whose powerful rendition of “Salamat Sa Musika,” left the audience captivated. Following the program, guests enjoyed a specially curated Kisetsu buffet that highlighted the vibrant flavors of both Filipino and Japanese cuisine, bringing the celebration of friendship to the table.

In celebration of Philippines-Japan Friendship Month, Hotel Okura Manila is also offering seasonal experiences and culinary offers inspired by the occasion, showcasing the refined flavors and cultural elegance of Japan throughout July.