PH Ambassador Lauds Filipino Graduates During AFSJ’s Annual “Paghayo Sa Tagsibol” Recognition Rites
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano (first row, center) with the Filipino graduates during the annual “Paghayo Sa Tagsibol” or spring recognition rites of the Association of Filipino Students in Japan (AFSJ) held on 11 March 2026 in hybrid format at the Embassy’s Multi-Purpose Hall. Also in the photo is Mr. Rovin Canja, Vice President for Academic Affairs of AFSJ (second row, leftmost).
As part of its continuing support of Filipino scholars in Japan, the Philippine Embassy in Japan hosted the annual “Paghayo Sa Tagsibol” spring recognition rites of the Association of Filipino Students in Japan (AFSJ) on 11 March 2026 in a hybrid format at the Embassy’s Multi-Purpose Hall and online.
Twenty-one (21) Filipino graduates who completed post-graduate and doctoral degrees from various Japanese universities were honored during the ceremony, together with their families and friends.
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano delivers her remarks at the annual “Paghayo Sa Tagsibol” or spring recognition rites of the Association of Filipino Students in Japan (AFSJ) held on 11 March 2026 in hybrid format at the Embassy’s Multi-Purpose Hall.
“Congratulations to all the graduates present here today and those joining us online, on your respective academic achievements. Thank you for paving the way for other students to benefit from educational opportunities in Japan. As you move forward, I call on each and every one of you to share what you have learned with our fellow Filipinos, and to make a positive impact in your respective chosen paths and professions. This year, we are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the normalization of Philippines-Japan diplomatic relations. May you continue to serve as beacons of hope and light that will further strengthen the enduring relations between the Philippines and Japan,” underscored Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano during her remarks.
The program was also attended by members of the Philippine Association of Japanese Government Scholars (PHILAJAMES) as well as former members of the AFSJ Executive Committee.
Ambassador Garcia-Albano likewise reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to collaborate with AFSJ in future initiatives that promote people-to-people ties and exchanges, especially in the fields of education and research. In line with this partnership, the Embassy will serve as venue host for AFSJ’s Dunong 2026, the organization’s annual academic symposium scheduled for 11-12 April 2026.
AFSJ was established in 1954 and currently has more than 100 members from universities and academic institutions across Japan. The group organizes regular learning sessions, research activities, and other socio-cultural initiatives for its members, and student network in Japan and in the Philippines.
The Philippine Embassy in Japan continues to support AFSJ’s initiatives, including its bi-annual “Paghayo” and oath-taking ceremonies.
