TRIBUTE TO HEROES. Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas (left) and former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama are shown in a meeting after paying tribute to Filipinos who suffered and were considered as heroes of the Japanese invasion. Both officials vowed to strengthen the relationship between the Philippines and Japan and conduct exchange programs in the future. (Photo courtesy of Batangas LGU)
LIPA CITY, Batangas – To further strengthen and promote friendship and deep relationship with the Philippines, Japan's former prime minister and his wife visited this city on Wednesday and paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifices of residents here during World War II.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and his wife, Miyuki Hatoyama, joined the province in paying tribute to World War II victims and heroes at the Tower of Peace and the Burial Grounds Marker in Barangay Lumbang here.
The program, considered a significant and memorable occasion for both nations, honored Filipinos who suffered during World War II and commemorated the heroism of residents here who died during the Japanese invasion.
Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas welcomed the Hatoyama couple and the members of the Board of Directors of the East Asian Community Research Institute, of which he (Mandanas) was appointed as chairperson.
Hatoyama and Mandanas led a wreath-laying ceremony at the Lumbang Tower of Peace.
Both officials reaffirmed their countries' unwavering support for the Japan-Philippines partnership, which includes defense and economic cooperation, labor mobility, and new areas such as critical infrastructure.
Mandanas said the meeting "is also to add value to and revive the ongoing relationship between the Philippines and Japan for peace talks."
While in Batangas, Hatoyama also met with District Representative Theresa Collantes, Lipa City Mayor Eric Africa, Anakalusugan Rep. Ray Florence Reyes, 6th District Board Member (BM) Bibong Mendoza, 3rd District BM Fred Corona, BM Wilfredo Maliksi, and other local and foreign dignitaries.
Hatayoma was Japan's prime minister from September 2009 to June 2010. (PNA)
