President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, together with First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, undertook a state call on Tmperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Wednesday. The state call was an important part of the reception by the Japanese Imperial Family during the President’s State Visit to Japan.

Hosting a state visit is a rare honor extended by Japan to select foreign leaders. Marcos is only the third world leader that the Emperor has received on a state visit since his accession to the throne in 2019.

This demonstrates the deep strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan, especially this year as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of their diplomatic relations.

During the state call, Marcos received the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, Japan’s highest and most prestigious award.

The First Lady also received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown.

The Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, established in 1876 by Emperor Meiji, is bestowed on foreign heads of state, royalty, and distinguished leaders for exceptional service and contributions to Japan.

The Order of the Precious Crown, meanwhile, is traditionally awarded to female members of foreign royal families and high-ranking women dignitaries during state visits.

In a reciprocal gesture, the Philippines conferred the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Supremo or Grand Collar on Emperor Naruhito, while Empress Masako received the Order of Gabriela Silang.

Upon arriving at the Imperial Palace, Marcos and the First Lady were formally welcomed by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako before proceeding with the ceremonial rites.

Also present during the welcome ceremony were Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

The ceremony included the playing of the Philippine and Japanese national anthems, the rendering of military honors, and the President’s inspection of the Guard of Honor.

Following the welcome ceremony, the Imperial Couple first introduced the members of the Japanese Cabinet and other government officials, after which President Marcos and the First Lady introduced the members of the Philippine delegation.

Marcos and the First Lady then joined the Emperor and Empress at the Take-no-Ma, or Imperial Palace Audience Room, for the state call, where the leaders exchanged greetings and pleasantries.

After the state call, the Imperial Couple accompanied Marcos and the First Lady back to the porch, where they bid them farewell.

Marcos is in Japan for a state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in security, trade, investment, and regional affairs.

The visit also coincided with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan. Presidential News Desk