Philippine Embassy Showcases Philippine Culture, Products and Creative Industries, Supports Charity at Ikebana International Fair
Philippine Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Christian L. De Jesus (2nd from left) led the Embassy’s participation at the Ikebana International Fair organized by the Ikebana International-Tokyo Founding Chapter on 10 December 2025 at the Hotel New Otani in Tokyo. Also in the photo are the Embassy’s Cultural Team, namely, (from left to right) First Secretary and Consul Fatima G. Quintin, Cultural Officer and Attaché Ma. Alyssa Jo A. Bacongco, and translator/interpreter, Ms. Chihiro Watanabe.
TOKYO, 19 December 2025 – As part of its cultural and economic diplomacy initiative, the Philippine Embassy in Japan participated in the annual Ikebana International Fair organized by the Ikebana International Tokyo Founding Chapter on 10 December 2025 at the Hotel New Otani in Tokyo.
“The Ikebana International Fair provides an excellent platform for promoting Philippine culture, sought-after food products and beautiful creations of Filipino artisans to the Japanese and international audiences. It also serves as an ideal opportunity for cultural exchange while supporting the organization’s charitable causes,” stated Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano.
The Embassy’s participation was led by Deputy Chief of Mission Christian L. De Jesus. The Philippine booth featured crowd-favorite Filipino food products such as dried fruits and artisanal chocolates, as well as Philippine pearls, Filipino-made shawls suited for Japan’s winter season, and other handcrafted products.
The Philippine Embassy booth featured crowd favorite Filipino food products such as dried fruits and artisanal chocolates.
Founded in 1956 to promote people-to-people ties through “ikebana”, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, Ikebana International has since expanded its chapters worldwide. Its Tokyo Founding Chapter now boasts 540 members, among whom Ambassador Garcia-Albano is an honorary member. The 2025 Ikebana International Fair was graced by Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado and saw participation from 40 embassies based in Tokyo. The Ambassador of Hungary, H.E. Anna AULNER-BÁLINT, served as this year’s Fair chairperson.
Visitors check out the Philippine food products and creations of Filipino artisans at the Philippine Embassy booth during the Ikebana International Fair organized by the Ikebana International-Tokyo Founding Chapter.
Proceeds from the Ikebana International Fair will be allocated to the organization’s various charitable initiatives.
