Philippine Expo 2025 Opens in Tokyo, Celebrating Culture, Cuisine, and Cross-Cultural Friendship
Tokyo, The Gulf Observer: A vibrant celebration of Philippine culture, food, and friendship commenced on Friday as the Philippine Expo 2025 officially opened its doors at Ueno Park in Tokyo. Now in its eighth edition, the three-day festival has become Japan’s largest Filipino cultural event, drawing tens of thousands of visitors eager to immerse themselves in the Philippines’ rich heritage.
Running through Sunday, the expo offers free admission and is expected to attract between 80,000 and 100,000 attendees over the weekend.
Organized by Philippine Expo, a general incorporated association, and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the ASEAN-Japan Centre, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and other partners, this year’s event aims to further strengthen cultural ties between Japan and the Philippines.
“We hope this event will give people opportunities to discover the fun, warmth, and richness of Filipino culture,” said Nobuyuki Suzuki, Chair of the Philippine Expo 2025 Organizing Committee.
Festival-goers can enjoy a wide selection of traditional Filipino dishes, including adobo, a savory meat stew, and taho, a sweet dessert made from silken tofu and syrup. In addition to culinary delights, stalls are showcasing handcrafted Filipino products, such as accessories made from hemp, seashells, and other indigenous materials, representing the Philippines’ artisanal roots.
A major highlight of the expo is its entertainment lineup, hosted on a dedicated stage and featuring performances by Filipino artists, Japanese pop idol groups, and other musical talents from both nations.
According to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, there are currently over 340,000 Filipinos living in Japan, making them the fourth-largest foreign community after Chinese, Vietnamese, and South Koreans.
The Philippine Expo continues to serve as a bridge between communities, fostering understanding and celebrating the shared values of hospitality, artistry, and friendship that unite Japan and the Philippines.
