Japan Embassy’s Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi attended a special lecture hosted by the Embassy of Spain on November 28, 2025, titled “Architecture and Urban Planning during the Spanish Period.” The event was held at the National University Mall of Asia (NU MOA).
Also present were Embassy of Spain First Secretary Alvaro García Moreno, NU MOA Executive Director Dolly Rose S. Manalang, Academic Director Dr. Annalie N. de Lemos, and School of Architecture Dean Arch. Serge T. Chua, Jr.
The conference—organized by the Embassy of Spain in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan and NU MOA—featured distinguished Spanish architects Assoc. Prof. Juan Ramon Jimenez of the University of Shiga Prefecture and Project Assistant Prof. Jesus Pulido of the University of Tokyo’s Center for Global Education. Both scholars are conducting significant research in Japanese universities. Their lecture explored Spanish-era architecture and fortifications in Intramuros, Parian, San Nicolas, Cavite, Cebu, and Davao, among other key heritage sites.
In his remarks, Minister Yokota expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Spain for leading initiatives that strengthen cultural heritage awareness among students. He encouraged NU MOA’s youth to continue participating in cultural exchange programs that help build global cooperation and friendship.
Since Japan and Spain elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership in 2018, both nations have expanded coordination and development cooperation in emerging regions. Japan’s active involvement in this event underscores its commitment to deepening friendship and collaboration with the Philippines and Spain, particularly in areas of cultural preservation and educational exchange