LIVE updates: State visit of Japan's emperor, empress

MANILA, Philippines – Japan Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko are set to conduct a five-day state visit in the Philippines starting Tuesday.

This will be the imperial couple's first official visit to the country since 1962 when they were crowned prince and princess of Japan.

The couple’s visit, considered as a reciprocal one following President Benigno Aquino III’s visit in Tokyo in June last year, coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan. The two countries are known to have one of the closest partnerships in the region.

Aside from their scheduled activities in Manila, the imperial couple will take take a side trip to Laguna.

Get real time updates on the visit of Japan's Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.

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