The government of Japan has named two Filipino leaders among the recipients of its 2026 Spring Conferment of Decorations, recognizing their roles in deepening relations with the Philippines.
Former Senate President Aquilino Martin dela Llana Pimentel III received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun. Former Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.
The recognition of Purisima centers on his role in opening and strengthening economic ties between Japan and the Philippines. As Finance Secretary from 2010 to 2016, he pushed reforms that allowed more foreign banks—including Japanese institutions—to enter the Philippine market, boosting financial cooperation.
Earlier, as Trade and Industry Secretary, Purisima helped secure the country’s first bilateral Economic Partnership Agreement with Japan. This agreement laid the groundwork for increased trade and investment, reinforcing long-term economic collaboration between the two nations.
Pimentel, who served as Senate President from 2016 to 2018, was recognized for supporting key agreements such as the Japan-Philippines Social Security Agreement, which improved exchanges between citizens of both countries.
He also strengthened parliamentary ties, including facilitating a historic visit by Japan’s House of Councillors leader, and led a Senate resolution honoring former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for advancing bilateral relations.
The awards reflect Japan’s recognition of efforts by both leaders to expand diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people connections, with Purisima’s reforms particularly underscoring the growing depth of economic partnership between the two countries.
