President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recognized outgoing Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya on Thursday, August 27, honoring his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between the Philippines and Japan.
During a farewell audience at Malacañang, Marcos conferred the Order of Sikatuna, Grand Cross with Distinction, upon the diplomat in recognition of his efforts to deepen the partnership between Manila and Tokyo across multiple sectors, including defense, security, and economic development.
Malacañang highlighted Endo’s contributions to national priority areas such as infrastructure, transportation, education, maritime security, and capacity building. The diplomat was also commended for supporting peace and stability initiatives in Mindanao, particularly community development programs and the ongoing transition of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Additionally, the recognition acknowledged Japan’s prompt humanitarian aid and disaster relief under Endo’s tenure, along with his programs aimed at fostering cultural goodwill and mutual understanding between the two nations.
The Order of Sikatuna stands as one of the nation’s highest diplomatic honors, awarded for exceptional service and significant contributions to international relations.
The conferment coincides with major milestones in Philippine-Japan relations, as both nations celebrate 70 years of normalized diplomatic ties and 15 years of their Strengthened Strategic Partnership.