Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado at the Philippine Pavilion (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)
Cover Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado at the Philippine Pavilion (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)
Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado at the Philippine Pavilion (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)

In a warm cultural exchange, strengthening Japanese and Filipino ties, Princess Takamado honours the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka

In a momentous occasion for cultural diplomacy and friendship between Japan and the Philippines, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado graced the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka on July 7, 2025. Welcomed by Ambassador Mylene Garcia-Albano, Consul General Voltaire Mauricio and Pavilion Manager Raquel Tria-Joya, the Princess enjoyed world-class performances during her visit—which coincided with the Philippines’ National Day at the Expo.

“We are immensely honoured to have Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado at our Pavilion. Her presence highlights our collective effort to foster goodwill and mutual understanding through art, culture and diplomacy between our two countries. We thank Her Imperial Highness for her continuing support of our Embassy’s cultural initiatives,” says Ambassador Garcia-Albano.

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Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado admiring the woven pieces at the Philippine Pavilion (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)
Above Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado admiring the woven pieces at the Philippine Pavilion (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)
Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado admiring the woven pieces at the Philippine Pavilion (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)

The Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka—aptly named Woven—vividly showcases the country’s vibrant weaving culture and hospitable community. With 212 indigenous textiles proudly displayed on its façade, 18 region-inspired handwoven artworks and interactive AI installations, the Pavilion brought together tradition and innovation in a multisensory experience. 

“It is a well-thought-of pavilion. From the handwoven artworks that show how the Philippines has so much to offer, to the façade that truly showcases sustainability,” says Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado.

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Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado’s visit reinforces the positive reception of the Philippines at the Expo (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)
Above Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado’s visit reinforces the positive reception of the Philippines at the Expo (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)
Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado’s visit reinforces the positive reception of the Philippines at the Expo (Photo: Tourism Promotions Board)

Towards the end of the Princess’s visit, she also met Kokoro-chan—the Philippine Pavilion’s tarsier mascot—and was honoured with three handmade gifts: a rattan-woven scarf, a bag with woven details and a Tangkulo scarf.

“Princess Takamado’s presence reminds us that tourism is more than travel; it is a bridge that connects cultures and nurtures partnerships. Through policies that champion sustainable and community-based tourism, we hope to inspire more Japanese visitors to discover the many reasons to love the Philippines,” says Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco.

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Gabriel Bohol
Features Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

About

Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.

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A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.

You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.