The Presidential Museum and Library has shared photos online of Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko during their state visit to the Philippines in 1962 when they were still crown prince and princess.
The photos, courtesy of Manila Bulletin’s Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, were uploaded in an online gallery featuring the history of the diplomatic relations between Philippines and Japan.
One of the photos showed Akihito being greeted by former President Diosdado Macapagal, who conferred him the Order of Sikatuna.
Then crown princess Michiko was also seen side by side former First Lady Eva Macapagal and a young Gloria Macapagal in one of the pictures.
The Japanese imperial couple arrived in the Philippines earlier today for a five-day state visit, marking the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between Japan and the Philippines. YG/RC