[Provisional Translation]

I am pleased to announce that Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress will pay a State Visit to the Philippines.
 
Japan has long enjoyed close and cordial relations with the Philippines. The Government of the Philippines has long extended its invitation for Their Majesties to visit the Philippines, and President Aquino kindly renewed its invitation when he visited Japan last June as a State Guest. Next year marks the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines, and the relationship has been further advanced in wide-ranging areas in recent years.
 
I am convinced that the visit will further strengthen the intimate relations of friendship and goodwill with the Philippines, and I feel immense pleasure together with the people of Japan.
 
I would like to express my wholehearted wish for Their Majesties’ pleasant journey and safe return home.