The House of Representatives on Tuesday adopted House Resolution 1274 commemorating the 70th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan.

The resolution was introduced by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III, House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos and Minority Leader Rep. Marcelino Libanan.

“Under President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. and Speaker Bojie Dy, we continue to strengthen partnerships that bring safer communities, better infrastructure and greater economic opportunities to Filipino families. Japan has remained a trusted friend whose support is felt in our trains, schools, coastlines and communities,” Rep. Marcos said.

HR 1274 recognized the enduring friendship between the two countries and the transformation of their relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The measure traced the formal establishment of diplomatic relations to July 23, 1956 following the entry into force of the San Francisco Peace Treaty and the Reparations Agreement.

It recognizes 2026 as the Philippines-Japan Friendship Year under the theme, “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities.”

The resolution described Japan as one of the Philippines’ leading development partners in infrastructure modernization, industrial growth, technological advancement and disaster preparedness.

It specifically cited the Metro Manila Subway, North-South Commuter Railway and Japan’s extensive Official Development Assistance programs.

“This anniversary honors a friendship that produces practical results for our people, from faster transportation and stronger disaster response to scholarships, jobs and improved maritime security. We are preserving a valuable partnership while building opportunities for the next generation,” Marcos added.

The resolution highlighted educational and cultural exchanges through the Japanese Government Scholarship Program and the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET).

It noted that 67 young Filipinos joined the JET Program in 2025 and that a record 888,000 Filipino travelers visited Japan.

The measure also recognized Japan’s provision of patrol vessels to the Philippine Coast Guard, the signing of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement and the Philippines’ ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement.

It acknowledged cooperation in renewable energy, environmental protection, parliamentary dialogue and the contributions of Filipino and Japanese communities as bridges between the two countries.

The resolution directed that a copy be furnished to the Government of Japan through the Embassy of Japan in Manila. (PNA)