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The Philippines wows at Expo 2025 Osaka with National Day Celebration
Osaka, Japan — On Saturday, June 7, the Philippines dazzled visitors at Expo 2025 Osaka with a vibrant celebration of its National Day. The Ray Garden was filled to capacity as the nation showcased its rich heritage, boundless creativity, and resilient spirit. The event was a beautiful tapestry of culture, featuring traditional performances, vibrant displays, and heartfelt narratives that captivated the audience, firmly placing the Philippines in the spotlight.
The day commenced with a dazzling Grand Parade at the Expo Grounds, where lively traditional dances unfolded against a backdrop of radiant costumes and captivating cultural performances, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of the Filipino heritage. Following this energetic display, a ceremonial program took place at the picturesque Ray Garden, where the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary, Christina Garcia Frasco, offered an inviting and heartfelt Filipino welcome to the diverse global audience gathered at the Expo.
“Today, the Philippines presents itself before the world with the enduring strength of a nation rooted in heritage, reaching forward with hope. On behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., and the Filipino people, I extend our deepest gratitude to the Government of Japan, to the organizers of Expo 2025, and to our fellow nations for this extraordinary gathering of global community, aspirations, and shared humanity. This Expo is proof that across seas and borders, we still believe in something larger than ourselves—the power of culture, the promise of peace, and the duty we share to shape a better world,” Secretary Frasco said.
The Tourism Secretary shared a poignant reflection on the profound message of the Pavilion and the Philippines’ vibrant participation in this significant global event.
“We came not merely to exhibit the Philippines, but to extend our hand, open our heart, and speak to the world of who we truly are—not just for display, but for dialogue; not only as a showcase, but as an invitation. Guided by the vision of our President, it has been our mission at the Department of Tourism to bring the Filipino identity to the global stage—not as a single thread, but as a vibrant tapestry—woven from centuries of influence, shaped by our many islands and ethnolinguistic communities, held together by a shared spirit of resilience, warmth, and pride,” Secretary Frasco said at the event, which gathered high-level officials and personalities from both Japan and the Philippines.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has been officially appointed as the Chairperson and Commissioner-General of the Philippine Organizing Committee (POC) for the highly anticipated Expo 2025 Osaka. This designation was formalized through Administrative Order No. 7, which was signed by President Marcos Jr. on April 19, 2023. In this pivotal role, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines will function as the Secretariat of the POC, playing a crucial part in shaping the country’s participation in this global event.
“Our Pavilion bears the theme: ‘Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future.’ And in that word—’woven’—lies the ethos of how we have endured, and emerged as a nation. Across our over 7000 islands, life does not follow a single thread. It is interwoven. Our traditions, our aspirations, our labors and triumphs—none stands alone. They are strands in a greater tapestry representing the spirit of who we are and who we strive to become. In Tagalog, we call this spirit ‘diwa’—the essence that animates. In Cebuano, ‘panaghiusa’—the unity that makes us whole. And in every part of our Pavilion, that spirit of unity in diversity is alive,” she added.
Secretary Frasco enthusiastically emphasized the impressive reception of the Philippine Pavilion, which has attracted over 300,000 visitors within a mere two months, quickly establishing itself as a beloved highlight of the event. She expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, various national government agencies, and their talented design partners, Architect Carlo Calma and the renowned international firm Tellart, who together transformed the Pavilion’s vision into a stunning reality.
At the core of the National Day celebration was HinabingHiraya (Woven Imagination), a captivating three-part cultural performance thoughtfully curated by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). This event beautifully highlighted the rich tapestry of Filipino artistry, intertwining the ancient craft of weaving with the art of storytelling to showcase a vibrant narrative of culture and heritage. Each segment of the performance invited audiences to immerse themselves in the intricate details of traditional weaving techniques, while enchanting tales unfolded, revealing the deep connections between the art forms and the Filipino identity.
“For centuries, paghahabi or weaving has been at the heart of the Filipino story—from birth to death, from peace and conflict. This art form is not only intricate in design but also very rich in meaning. Each thread tells a story of ancestry, identity, and our shared hopes. Our Philippine National Day performance celebrates the Filipino dream, made visible. By remembering the past and embracing the present, we imagine a future shaped by Filipino artistry—a future where every thread strengthens the collective fabric of the nation on the world stage,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles, who proudly presented the performance.
The program concluded with a stirring ensemble rendition of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal,” its poignant melodies resonating throughout the venue like a heartfelt pledge to the nation’s rich history, vibrant present, and hopeful future. As the final notes lingered in the air, the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause, a testament to the emotional impact of the performance.
Among the esteemed attendees were Commissioner General Koji Haneda of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, accompanied by his gracious spouse, Madame Ihoko Haneda. The gathering also welcomed Secretary General Hiroyuki Ishige of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition and Secretary General Kenji Yamada of the Japan-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship League. The vibrant atmosphere was further elevated by the presence of Osaka City Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama and H.E. Kazuya Endo, the Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, as well as Philippine Ambassador to Tokyo, Mylene J. Garcia-Albano. Consul General Voltaire Mauricio of the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka added to the diplomatic representation, while Senator Nancy Binay brought her distinct political insights. The event was graced by various officials from both nations, international tourism stakeholders, prominent personalities, and members of the media, all contributing to a rich tapestry of collaboration and goodwill between Japan and the Philippines.
Expo 2025 Osaka Commissioner General Haneda conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the Philippines’ participation in the event, highlighting the profound significance and resonance of its chosen theme.
“We understand that at this year’s Expo under the theme of ‘Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future,’ (the) Philippines’ exhibition showcases its rich nature and cultural heritage alongside attractions that utilize digital technology. Through these diverse displays, I hope that the charm of the Philippines will be communicated more widely to Japan and the world,” he said.
Journey Through the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka
Officials also embarked on an engaging tour of the Philippine Pavilion, where they were captivated by vibrant live cultural performances presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). They explored a range of standout features, including the enchanting ‘Dancing with Nature’—a mesmerizing digital display that allows visitors to seamlessly merge with elements of the natural world. The futuristic AI Photobooth provided a unique, interactive experience, while the serene Hilot Wellness Space offered a glimpse into traditional Filipino healing practices. In the Habi Gift Shop, a delightful array of proudly Filipino products showcased the rich craftsmanship and heritage of the Philippines. Additionally, the Hain Take-out became an instant favorite among Expo visitors, serving up a delectable selection of authentic Filipino snacks and dishes that tantalized their taste buds.
“Throughout the duration of the Expo, we invite everyone to deepen their engagement with the Philippines by joining us for Philippine Week, ASEAN Day, and for our tourism, investment and business missions, and for every opportunity to discover how the Philippines is joining the global community of nations in weaving the future society to which we all aspire,” Secretary Frasco enthused.
At Expo 2025 Osaka, National Days serve as a vibrant focal point, providing each participating country with a unique opportunity to showcase its rich culture, remarkable achievements, and significant contributions to the global community. These dedicated celebrations allow nations to immerse visitors in their traditions, innovations, and values, fostering a spirit of international camaraderie. The Expo will unfold its diverse offerings until October 13, 2025, inviting the world to experience a kaleidoscope of cultural expressions and shared human advancement.
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The Philippines wows at Expo 2025 Osaka with National Day Celebration
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog
