Japan and the Philippines are arranging a visit by Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko early next year to mark the 60th anniversary of the normalization of bilateral ties, officials of the two countries said Tuesday.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga and Philippine Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma said the two countries have been planning the Imperial couple's visit following an invitation by Philippine President Benigno Aquino III to the Emperor and Empress during his state visit to Japan in June.
"We are pleased to announce that the Philippines has started necessary coordination with Japan for a visit of their majesties, the Emperor and Empress of Japan, to the Philippines, possibly in early 2016," Coloma said in a statement.