Philippine Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Christian L. De Jesus (6th from left) led Embassy personnel in welcoming the Japan Barrier Free Project, headed by its President, Mr. Morimatu “Bengt” Yamada (7th from right), and children with special needs and their respective families on 18 July 2025 at the chancery.

TOKYO, 23 July 2025 – In commemoration of the 47th National Disability Rights Week in the Philippines from 17 to 23 July 2025, with the theme “Innovation for Inclusion: Building Inclusive Communities Together,” and the Philippines-Japan Friendship month, the Philippine Embassy welcomed the Japan Barrier Free Project representatives, led by its president, Mr. Morimatu “Bengt” Yamada at the chancery for a presentation and cultural activity.

Philippine Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Christian L. De Jesus underscored the importance of promoting an inclusive society during his remarks on behalf of Ambassador Mylene J. Garcia-Albano.

“Indeed, it takes a village to raise a child. The collective efforts of a child’s family, the government, society and peers are essential to his or her overall wellbeing and development. Organizations such as the Japan Barrier Free Project are essential in advocating for the welfare of children with special needs, in spreading more awareness and understanding of their unique capabilities, and in providing them with more opportunities and access to services so they can thrive, and live healthier, more successful and more fulfilling lives,” underscored Deputy Chief of Mission Christian L. De Jesus during his remarks on behalf of Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano.

The Japan Barrier Free Project, launched by Mr. Yamada in 2017 in the lead up to the 2020 Paralympic Games, aims to work with the government, educational institutions, embassies, and the private sector to promote inclusiveness and enable children with special needs to have a more secure future. Activities of the Japan Barrier Free Project include the Go! Go! Embassy! cultural immersion program, which has enabled the organization’s representatives and children with special needs and their families to visit close to sixty (60) embassies so far.

Ms. Suzu Yamazaki and her mother, Mrs. Rei Yamazaki; and Mr. Kazuya Shimizu and his mother, Mrs. Akemi Yamazaki, shared their experiences as families with children with special needs.

The event’s special guests were Ms. Suzu Yamazaki and Mr. Kazuya Shimizu, who both have Down’s syndrome, and their respective families. Their families shared the challenges and joys of having children with special needs, and reiterated the importance of believing in their respective capabilities and talents, and in maximizing their potential as individuals.

Mr. Kazuya Shimizu during his heartwarming dance performance.

A very talented dancer, Kazuya-san gave a moving performance, which touched the hearts of the audience during the event.

This is the second visit of the Japan Barrier Free Project to the Philippine Embassy. The first was held in 2020.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S460MHpf9qs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LLepbG_834

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