Individuals and an organization in the Philippines have been named recipients of the 2025 Japan Foreign Minister’s Commendation, an esteemed recognition given to personalities that have made outstanding contributions to deepening mutual understanding and strengthening ties with Japan.
Commendations were awarded to Mr. Inomata Norihiro, Representative Director of the
Philippine Nikkei-jin Legal Support Center, and Ms. Nagai Hiroko, former director of the
Japanese Studies Program at Ateneo de Manila University School of Social Sciences, and the Stratbase Institute for Strategic and International Studies.
The lone organization lauded by the Japanese foreign minister, Stratbase Institute is a
Philippine-based think tank known for its work in international relations, strategic policy
research, and advocacy.
In a press release issued by the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, the Stratbase Institute was commended as: “A think tank established in the Philippines in 2004, consisting of prominent local researchers across a wide range of fields including the economy, security, and maritime environmental protection in the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific region.”
The Embassy also recognized the Philippines for inviting diplomatic corps, experts, and
researchers.
“Beyond academic exchanges with Japanese research institutions, the institute has provided many opportunities for our country to promote understanding of Japan’s foreign policy, inviting Japanese Ambassadors and Japanese researchers to academic events as a panelist or speaker, as well as publishing many journals featuring essays on Japan-Philippine relations,” it shared.
Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, President of Stratbase Institute, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“This commendation is a profound honor for Stratbase Institute. It affirms our commitment to creating spaces for dialogue that enrich Philippine-Japan relations and contribute to regional peace and stability,” said Manhit. He also underscored Japan’s role as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific.
“Japan has been a consistent and reliable partner of the Philippines. Our collaboration is anchored not only on mutual respect but also on a shared vision of upholding democratic values and a rules-based order in the region. We will continue to serve as a platform that deepens understanding and strengthens this important relationship. We have always advocated for bringing knowledge, evidence, and collaboration to the forefront of policy debates,” he shared.
