Minister and Consul General Takahiro Hanada of the Japanese Embassy joined in the 79th Anniversary commemoration of the Leyte Gulf Landings. The event, which took place on October 20, was attended by government officials from the Philippines, embassy representatives from the United States and Australia, as well as distinguished individuals, including representatives of veterans' organizations.

In his speech, Minister and Consul General Hanada offered deepest condolences to all the victims of the Second World War in the Philippines, and expressed his utmost respect to all individuals, including war veterans, who have greatly contributed to the peace and stability that all enjoy today. Reflecting on the past and bearing in mind the feelings of deep remorse, Minister and Consul General Hanada affirmed Japan wishes for ever-lasting peace and is determined to uphold the rules-based international order. He also mentioned that Japan and the Philippines have become the closest friends nearly eight decades after the war, and Japan has contributed to the development of the Philippines and Province of Leyte as a top donor country of the ODA.