MANILA, Philippines - Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro is set to host Japanese Foreign Minister MOTEGI Toshimitsu during his official visit to the country on 15 January 2026, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Friday.
In a news release, the DFA said that the two Foreign Ministers are expected to review key developments in the Philippines-Japan "Strengthened Strategic Partnership".
Both officials are also expected to discuss regional and international matters, including the Philippines' Chairship of ASEAN and the situation in the South China Sea.
Foreign Minister Motegi earlier expressed Tokyo's objection over "unilateral attempts" to change the statu quo by force or coercion in the region.
This was aired by the Japanese official during the 20th East Asia Summit on the sidelines of the ASEAN Leaders' Summit in Malaysia last October 2025.
According to Motegi, Japan is “seriously concerned” that dangerous and coercive activities are intensifying in the South China Sea, and urged parties to settle their maritime disputes peacefully by complying with the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Award.
The official visit will take place as the Philippines and Japan mark this year the 70th annivesary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two states.
Earlier, the governments of both countries unveiled the official commemorative logo for the 2026 Philippines-Japan Friendship year, with the theme "Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities," reflecting the long-standing partnership and shared aspirations of Manila and Tokyo.
"Created by Baguio-based artist Mr. Edmon Fuerte, the logo features intertwined Shimenawa and Abaca ropes, symbolizing the strong and enduring partnership between both countries. The design also incorporates elements and colors from the national flags of Japan and the Philippines," the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines stated.
