Date of publication: Apr 16, 2018
Jose C. Laurel V
- Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
- Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines tokyo.philembassy.net
Date of birth: Sept. 17, 1944
Hometown: Manila
Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 30 (as of April 2018)
Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?
I first came to Japan as a one-year-old with my family in 1945. The Laurel family has been at the forefront of supporting relations between the Philippines and Japan since the late 1800s. My grandfather was Philippine President Jose P. Laurel from 1943 to 1945, and my father was ambassador to Japan from 1966 to 1971. As an adult, I became deeply involved in Philippine-Japan affairs as a businessman, and now as ambassador.
Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.
A resilient Philippine foreign service for a strong Philippines.
As Philippine ambassador to Japan, I am guided by this motto as I undertake diplomacy in the name of my country and government to promote and protect Philippine interests in the global community.
As Philippine ambassador to Japan, I am guided by this motto as I undertake diplomacy in the name of my country and government to promote and protect Philippine interests in the global community.
Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?
Firstly, election as governor of Batangas province while as a candidate of the opposition, and from there, surviving and finishing my term amid the uncertain times of martial law in the Philippines.
Secondly, recognition at age 35 as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in 1983, as well as being nominated one of the Ten Outstanding Young People in the World in 1984.
Secondly, recognition at age 35 as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in 1983, as well as being nominated one of the Ten Outstanding Young People in the World in 1984.
Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?
To further improve and develop the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership on the basis of strong cooperation and mutual respect and understanding.
I became ambassador at an important time in Philippine-Japan ties. Our strategic partnership has blossomed, broadened and deepened greatly, covering business and economics, development cooperation, academics, cultural and interpersonal exchange, and now even security and defense.
I became ambassador at an important time in Philippine-Japan ties. Our strategic partnership has blossomed, broadened and deepened greatly, covering business and economics, development cooperation, academics, cultural and interpersonal exchange, and now even security and defense.
Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?
Last updated: Apr 16, 2018