(Eagle News) – The Philippines extended its “deepest gratitude” to the outgoing Emperor Akihito of Japan for his “invaluable role in advocating peace” and “fostering goodwill and friendship between the Philippines and Japan” throughout his reign.
The message was extended by the Philippine government through the Department of Foreign Affairs on the occasion of the abdication of His Majesty Emperor Akihito.
The DFA said that during Emperor Akihito’s 30-year reign, the friendly relations between the two countries flourished.
“His Majesty the Emperor was the first member of the Japanese Imperial Household to visit the Philippines, doing so twice – as Crown Prince in 1962, and as Emperor in 2016,” the department’s statement said.
“As the Heisei era draws to a close, the Government and people of the Philippines convey their sincerest best wishes for the good health and well-being of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress,” it added.
-Emperor Akihito’s expresses gratitude to people of Japan-
The 85-year-old Emperor said he had spent the 30 years of his reign performing his duties with “deep respect and love for the people.”
“That has been a great blessing,” he added.
The Emperor also offered his “heartfelt gratitude to the people of Japan who accepted me as the symbol of the state and supported me.”
Japan’s outgoing Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko dramatically modernised the tradition-bound monarchy, bringing themselves closer to the public and boosting popular support for the household.
Akihito has broken new ground with everything from his decision to marry for love to his outspoken calls for peace and expressions of regret over Japan’s wartime role.
(with a report from Agence France Presse)
