H.E. Endo Kazuya, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, hosted a private celebration for the Japan Foreign Ministry’s Commendation to Stratbase Institute at the Ambassador’s Residence. It was attended by members of the Stratbase Institute, the Philippine government, military, academe, and the diplomatic community.  

The commendation was awarded in September 2025 to the Stratbase Institute, led by its President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, in recognition of the organization’s outstanding contribution to promoting Japan–Philippines relations.  

In his remarks, Ambassador Endo recognized Stratbase’s role as an intellectual compass and as a trusted source, providing evidence-based analysis across economics, governance, and regional security. He stressed that in moments when clarity was urgently needed, the Institute provided insights grounded in expertise, integrity, and vision. Ambassador Endo also recognized Stratbase’s vital role in safeguarding the integrity of the 2016 Arbitral Award.  

In her message, read by Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim, DFA Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro expressed that the commendation is a testament to Japan’s support for the Stratbase Institute’s steadfast advocacy of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. She also stressed that the commendation recognizes Stratbase’s contribution in fostering dialogue and understanding on regional security—contributions that, according to her, complement the growing defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, especially through the Reciprocal Access Agreement.  

The Institute expresses its deep gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. The Institute remains committed to fostering deeper cooperation between the Philippines and Japan for the mutual benefit of our nations and the prosperity of the region.