The Iresai is annually observed by the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai Inc., together with the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai-International School and the Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku, in remembrance of the endurance and industry of our forefathers who first came to reside in Davao. The event is considered to be one of the cornerstones of the organization, having been practiced by its members for more than three decades already.
This year, the Iresai was conducted on August 15, 2017. The Opening prayer was led by Ms. Ruelyn Bobiles, a PNJK-IS Board Member who has been with the school for more than two decades. The PNJK staff sang Amazing Grace and Furusato accompanied by. Mr. Shuji Honda playing his guitar and Mr. Takakazu Machida with his violin.
Among the notable guests were Hon. Tomoko Dodo of the Consular Office of Japan in Davao City, and the Hon. Barangay Captain Ramon Bargamento, and his Barangay Councilors. A great number of Japanese residents and businessmen were in attendance as well.
Participants offered flowers as well as individual prayers to our deceased Japanese who passed away in the early days. These were Japanese migrants who came to the Philippines in the year 1904 till 1940, the same people who were the first agriculturists who introduced abaca industry as well as other prime commodities to the city. It was unfortunate that the war took everything away from those who should have enjoyed what their predecessors had introduced.
Each year we pay homage and respect to those buried in the sacred ground at Mintal Public Cemetery. We hold this activity because the early settles were responsible in bridging the gap between Japan and the Philippines which the young generation are desirous of further cementing the friendly relation.
