MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos were welcomed by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Wednesday, marking the start of the Philippine leader’s state visit to Japan.
Hosting a state visit is a rare honor extended by Japan to select foreign leaders, with Marcos being only the third world leader that the Emperor has received on a since his accession to the throne in 2019.
This demonstrates the deep strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan, more significantly this year as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations.
During the state call, the president received the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, Japan’s highest and most prestigious award.
The First Lady, meanwhile, was bestowed the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown.
The Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, established in 1876 by Emperor Meiji, is bestowed on foreign heads of state, royalty, and distinguished leaders for exceptional service and contributions to Japan.
The Order of the Precious Crown, on the other hand, is traditionally awarded to female members of foreign royal families and high-ranking women dignitaries during state visits.
