Ambassador ENDO Kazuya hosted a ceremony to present the Foreign Minister’s Commendation to the Stratbase Institute for Strategic and International Studies in recognition of its outstanding contributions to promoting understanding of Japan’s foreign policy in the Philippines.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Endo highlighted the Stratbase Institute’s pivotal role in fostering academic exchange with Japanese experts, hosting the Japanese Ambassador and researchers at key events, and publishing works that deepen insights into Japan-Philippines relations.
Ambassador Endo also noted the significance of the year ahead, as 2026 will mark the 70th Anniversary of the Normalization of Diplomatic Relations, the 15th Anniversary of the Japan-Philippines Strategic Partnership, and the Philippines’ assumption of the ASEAN Chairmanship. He expressed his commitment to further strengthening the intellectual and diplomatic ties between the two countries during this milestone period.
In response, Professor Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, President and CEO of Stratbase Institute, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Japan for the recognition.
The Government of Japan congratulates the Stratbase Institute on this prestigious honor, which underscores its important role in advancing academic collaboration, mutual understanding, and goodwill between Japan and the Philippines.