The Government of Japan has conferred prestigious honors on two Filipinos for their exceptional contributions to Japan-Philippines relations in diplomacy, infrastructure, and economic cooperation.
In a statement Monday, the Japanese Embassy in Manila announced that former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, while former Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star under Japan’s 2025 Autumn Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals.
Zubiri, who served as Senate President from 2022 to 2024, was recognized for promoting inter-parliamentary exchanges and advancing key bilateral initiatives, including the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement. He also supported defense cooperation through the early approval of the Reciprocal Access Agreement between the Self-Defense Forces of Japan and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Bautista, on the other hand, was honored for strengthening ties in infrastructure, transportation, and urban development during his term as Transportation Secretary from 2022 to 2025. He oversaw the progress of major Japan-assisted projects such as the Metro Manila Subway Project — the country’s first underground railway — under Japan’s Official Development Assistance.
Before joining government service, Bautista also expanded air connectivity between the two nations as president of Philippine Airlines, launching routes such as Haneda-Manila that boosted tourism and business exchanges.
The Order of the Rising Sun is among Japan’s highest distinctions, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to international relations, culture, and public service.
Through this conferment, Japan reaffirmed its deep appreciation for the Philippines’ continued partnership and commitment to mutual progress and regional cooperation.