Philippines showcases cultural brilliance at Expo 2025 Osaka 

The Philippines captivated the global audience at Expo 2025 Osaka with a vibrant celebration of its National Day, drawing thousands to the Ray Garden and Philippine Pavilion in a spirited display of heritage, innovation, and unity.

The day opened with a grand cultural parade across the Expo grounds, where traditional Filipino dances and colorful costumes from the country’s diverse regions brought the island nation’s story to life. The festive energy continued with a ceremonial program, led by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who delivered a message of hope, unity, and national pride on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the Filipino people.

“Today, the Philippines presents itself before the world with the enduring strength of a nation rooted in heritage, reaching forward with hope,” Frasco declared. “We came not merely to exhibit the Philippines, but to extend our hand, open our heart, and speak to the world of who we truly are—not just for display, but for dialogue.”

Under the theme “Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future,” the Philippine Pavilion has welcomed over 300,000 visitors in just two months, fast becoming a top attraction at the Expo. Designed by renowned architect Carlo Calma in collaboration with international firm Tellart, the Pavilion offers immersive digital experiences, cultural showcases, and a uniquely Filipino hospitality through its Habi Gift Shop, Hilot Wellness Space, and Hain Take-out food corner.

The National Day celebration featured Hinabing Hiraya (Woven Imagination), a three-part cultural performance curated by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), highlighting Filipino weaving, storytelling, and resilience. The program concluded with a stirring rendition of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal,” resonating as a vow to the nation's past, present, and future.

Secretary Frasco acknowledged the strong international support for the event, including the presence of high-ranking Japanese officials and diplomats, such as Commissioner General Koji Haneda, Secretary General Hiroyuki Ishige, and Osaka Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama. Also in attendance were Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano, Senator Nancy Binay, and key figures from the tourism and business sectors.

As Chairperson and Commissioner-General of the Philippine Organizing Committee for Expo 2025, Secretary Frasco reaffirmed the DOT’s commitment to showcasing the Philippines on the world stage through culture, innovation, and collaboration.

“This Expo is proof that across seas and borders, we still believe in something larger than ourselves—the power of culture, the promise of peace, and the duty we share to shape a better world,” she said.

Philippine participation at Expo 2025 Osaka continues to invite global audiences to explore the nation’s diverse identity and future-focused potential, with upcoming highlights including Philippine Week, ASEAN Day, and dedicated tourism and investment missions.

Expo 2025 runs until October 13, 2025, with the Philippines proudly standing among nations weaving together a shared future.