Emperor confers Japan’s highest honor on Romulo

MANILA, Philippines — The Emperor of Japan has conferred the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun on former foreign affairs secretary Alberto Romulo and six others during a ceremony at the Seiden-Matsu-no-Ma State Room of the Imperial Palace on May 9.

Romulo received Japan’s highest decoration along with six Japanese honorees, including Takuya Okada, former president of major retailer Aeon Co., and Shigeru Iwasaki, a former chief of the Joint Staff.

Romulo was cited for his role in and major contribution to the bilateral relation of the two countries, in particular the successful Japan-Philippine Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).

For the first time, Emperor Naruhito gave his address in English during the ceremony. He cited each of the recipients, saying he was very grateful to them for making great efforts in their respective duties and serving the country, society and the people.