Japan-Philippines Relations

April 29, 2025

On April 29 and 30, 2025, Mrs. ISHIBA Yoshiko, spouse of the Prime Minister of Japan, accompanied Prime Minister ISHIBA on an official visit to the Republic of the Philippines. On April 29, Mrs. ISHIBA visited the following sites.

1. Visit to Instalimb

Mrs. Ishiba, meeting with a person who uses a prosthetic leg. (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
A group photo of Mrs. Ishiba with Instalimist officials (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)

Mrs. ISHIBA Yoshiko, the spouse of the Prime Minister, visited Instalimb, which utilizes Japan's cutting-edge digital technology to provide affordable and swiftly delivered prosthetic legs in the Philippines. Mrs. ISHIBA expressed her gratitude towards Instalimb, stating that its work—contributing to society while serving as a bridge between Japan and the Philippines—is a valuable asset for the bilateral relationship. She also expressed her expectations for their future endeavors.
Following her tour of the prosthetic manufacturing facility, Mrs. ISHIBA engaged in discussions with an individual using the prosthetic leg. The prosthetic user shared how his life has changed from despair to hope with Instalimb product and discussed his future and aspirations.

2. Wreath-laying Ceremony at Rizal Park

Prime Minister Ishiba and Mrs. Ishiba line up in front of the floral tribute (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)

Together with Prime Minister Ishiba, Mrs. ISHIBA offered a flower wreath at Rizal Park, where a statue of Jose Rizal, a national hero who led the Philippine independence movement, is located. Through the wreath offering, Mrs. ISHIBA expressed her respect for the nation and people of the Philippines.

3. Welcome Ceremony at Malacañang Palace

Prime Minister Ishiba and Mrs. Ishiba and President Marcos enter the welcoming ceremony venue (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
At the welcoming ceremony, Prime Minister Ishiba and Mrs. Ishiba and President Marcos and Mrs. Marcos are receiving the salute of honor from the guard of honor (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)

Mrs. ISHIBA attended the welcome ceremony held at Malacañang Palace with Prime Minister Ishiba, where they were warmly welcomed by President Marcos and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.

4. Visit to Museo de Intramuros with Mrs. Louise Araneta-Marcos, First

Mrs. Ishiba poses for a photo with First Lady Marcos in front of an exhibit in the Intramuros Museum (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
Mrs. Ishiba playing an instrument from an exhibit in the museum (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)

Lady of the Philippines (Hosted by the Government of the Philippines) Accompanied by First Lady Marcos, Mrs. ISHIBA visited the Museo de Intramuros (Intramuros Museum). While viewing the exhibitions, Mrs. ISHIBA held a conversation with Mrs. Marcos. Mrs. Marcos introduced an “Intramuros Passport”, which was inspired by the “stamp rally” in the tourist destinations in Japan. Together, they also enjoyed a performance of the "Kulintang," a traditional percussion instrument from southern Philippines. The event served as a valuable opportunity for Mrs. ISHIBA to deepen her understanding of the Philippines’ rich cultural and artistic diversity. During this event, First Lady and Mrs. ISHIBA exchanged views on a wide range of topics, including promoting exchanges between the two countries.

5. Banquet Hosted by President Marcos

Prime Minister Ishiba and Mrs. Ishiba attend a dinner hosted by President Marcos (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)

Mrs. ISHIBA, alongside Prime Minister ISHIBA, attended a banquet hosted by President Marcos at Malacañang Palace, where she engaged with fellow attendees and fostered deeper ties. They also viewed a fireworks display hosted by the Office of the President.


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