Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya recently hosted a ceremony to present the Foreign Minister’s Commendation to the Stratbase Institute for Strategic and International Studies.
During the awarding ceremony, Ambassador Endo highlighted the Stratbase Institute for its role in promoting the understanding of Japan’s foreign policy through academic exchange with Japanese experts, hosting the Japanese Ambassador and Japanese researchers at academic events, and publishing works on Japan-Philippines relations.
He also noted 2026 marks an important year for the two countries as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of normalization of their diplomatic relations, the 15th anniversary of their strategic partnership, and the Philippines’ assumption of the ASEAN chairship. He said he is determined to further strengthen the intellectual foundation between Japan and the Philippines at this juncture.
The commendation, handed by Ambassador Endo to Stratbase Institute President and CEO Professor Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, recognizes the institution’s contribution in the promotion of academic exchange and in advancing friendship and goodwill between the two countries.
