Japan Archives - Page 4 of 5 - Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai, Incorporated

Sep

2015

“Trip to Japan”By: Ret. Judge Antonina B. Escovilla, PNJK President

By Admin

As officially agreed in a Board meeting where majority of the members present voted for the business trip of the President of the PNJK INC. Davao City Chapter, President of the Federation of the Nikkei Jin Kai and JPIC Coordinator, Mrs. Ines P. Mallari and yours truly left for Japan on October 18, 2013. Mrs. Eve Obuchi, JPIC Coordinator left ahead of us and met us at the Narita Airport in the evening of October 18, 2013. We checked in at Narita Tobu Hotel.

The following day, October 19, 2013, on board the limousine bus similar to our buses cruising along the national highways in Davao City, but more improved in technology and appearance, the three of us proceeded to Haneda Airport. The usual airport inspection having been completed, we waited for our flight bound for Kagoshima.

At Kagoshima, Mr. Yoshihiro Tokumitsu, President of Enuchicken met us. He brought us to his plant, where we were introduced to several of his assistants. Mrs. Mallari and yours truly toured the processing area. Before entering a particular area we were asked to wear gears similar to the uniform of their factory workers. We passed through the disinfectant area to ensure that we were not brigning in any unwanted virus that may be detrimental to the chickens being processed.

We saw workers inside but could not recognize them as they were covered from head to foot. But what we saw is enough to conclude that the area is meticulously clean and orderly. After conveying to Mr. Tokumitsu the purpose of our visit, that is to encourage the members of our association to organize as a group and the benefit that may derive there from once organized, he promised to support such objective.

After the conference with the officials of Enuchicken we were ushered back to Kagoshima City. This is the city where Mt. Sakurajima spews volcanic ashes almost every day. This has become an attraction to some tourists but a form of disaster on the part of the residents of Kagoshima. Residents of Kagoshima wore masks. Workers in the office used machines to clean their surrounding area. Mrs. Mallari, whose grandparents are from Kagoshima, gathered some ashes as a souvenir to the delight of Mr. Sato, a foreman of Mr. Tokumitsu. We checked in at Urbic Hotel in Kagoshima.

The following day, Sunday, nearly all of the factory workers were gathered in the multipurpose area of the building. We met the Kamiyama sisters, one of whom is still undergoing medication. We saw Remy Taguchi and her husband. We saw Delia with her husband Mr. Suemitsu, as well as the daughter of Teresita Villas and her apo. The newly-married Ritchell to her bucho, including her baby were there. We have not heard any problem from the members. They are happy and content to stay in a peaceful place—a place that is environment-friendly, being surrounded by trees and far from the city. Much to our surprise a program was prepared not only by our descendants but also by the Japanese. Each of us was asked to give a message. Almost everyone wanted us to taste the food prepared by each family. We met the spouses from Manila and the lady whose name I failed to get. She was so impressed by the way we send our members to Japan. According to her our system is so transparent unlike the entity that processed her papaers.

At the end of the day parting was difficult but we still had to continue our journey. We boarded the plane to Tokyo at the Kagoshima airport. Because of my Filipino coins my bag had to be scanned by the machine four times.

In Tokyo, we met Atty. Hideshige Aoki. He invited us to dinner at his residence. After checking in at Kanda Hotel, we were on our way to the residence of Atty. Aoki by train. We were met by Mrs. Junko Aoki and her dog Diana. Mrs. Aoki prepared dinner and we had fun exchanging pleasantries with the couple, as well as discussing the purpose of our visit. Atty. Aoki said that the aim of organizing the Filipino-descendants in Japan is commendable. Cooperation and unity are two criteria that would sustain a viable organization.

The following day, October 22, 2013, we left for Shizuoka via shinkansen. This time we were met by Miles, a representative of ACT, a company headed by Kawagishi Kaicho and his son. We talked lengthily with the father and son who were reluctant in allowing their workers to organize on the basis that they may stage a strike or even engage in illegal activities. Mrs. Mallari explained her position in organizing the descendants. She further conveyed to them that as President of the Federation the organized group will be under her supervision. With rigid supervision and formulation of policies that will be a step further from any irregularities and engagement in illegal activities, she is of the opinion that a strike would never occur. President Kawagishi was convinced with the explanation of Mrs. Mallari. In fact he said their company is in need of more employees, but that they could not give salary increase. While the pay is still within the minimum wage law, giving more is quite difficult.

Both father and son were so gracious enough to invite us to dinner with Vangie who has and is still employed in their company for years and Miles, the over all in charge of some of our descendants.

The following day, we were conducted by Miles to the train station for our trip to Sendai. On October 23, we were met by Hoshi syachou and checked in at the Green Hotel. In the evening, we were gathered at one restaurant by Mr. Hoshi and his son. Thereat, we met the Lumbac family, Esaki family, Emma the granddaughter of Yaiko, Luzminda Morikawa.

In the morning of October 24, 2013, we were fetched by Mr. Hoshi at Green Hotel Kakuda and after bidding goodbye to Mr. Hoshi’s son and his dog, we were on our way to the area where the 2011 tsunami devastated the whole town. Only few people could be seen working along the seaside. The place is so barren that I could only view empty lots with signs of destruction of houses and buildings. Next, we visited the area where the radiation levels were quite alarming. We were not allowed to enter the restricted area. There was one town which had new buildings that had to be abandoned on account of the government warning the residents against occupation as the radiation level would endanger their lives. The wastage of resources was perceptive. Houses that were designed beautifully were empty, without any occupants. Buildings apparently newly built could no longer be used for business purposes. Plants were left to wither. We saw presumably government men manning the area in full gear, attire that would prevent them from inhaling the dangerous gas that may anytime emit from the enclosed radiation plant.

From there, we went to the office of Mr. Hideo Ito. We conversed for a while then Russel Montajes with Mr. Hiroki Komata arrived to take us to Hanzawa syachou. We said goodbye and thanked Mr. Hoshi for his warm hospitality.

We were warmly received in the office of Mr. Masaaki Hanzawa. Greetings posted right beside the door adorned with fresh flowers boosted our depleting energy. The Nakasone family was there – Edna, Mitos and Jam. We were so happy to see them all in good health. We passed by the massage parlor of Mr. Hanzawa and thereat Sheryl Magtulis with her sister Aimee was eagerly waiting for our arrival. Again we saw another signage welcoming the three visitors from Davao. We checked in at Hotel Ookuro Onzen located right within the mountain. Though it was raining we were able to spend a few minutes at the so-called ofro where warm and natural water flow.

October 25, 2013 we visited Triumph Dormitory recently bought by Mr. Hanzawa. In this dormitory a number of our descendants were housed. The mother of April Mae E. Maton, the sister in law of Mr. Felipe Hiquial and relatives of the Kamiyama clan, conveyed to Eve the plan to go back to the Philippines for medical check up. Advices were given regarding the reason behind their presence in Japan. In all meetings conducted to only those who were available, they were informed the purpose of our visit. The sponsors welcomed the proposal to organize among the Filipino-descendants so that with one voice, sentiments relative to their present condition can be aired to appropriate government offices. If the Filipino descendants in Japan truly would group themselves, it could pave the way for the organization to become known. A slot during the Kigyo Kyo Kai Tai could even be allotted to their group if they gain enough recognition.

After our trip in Fukushima where Mr. Hanzawa’s cell-sites are numerous, we proceeded to Mitaka City on October 25, 2013. It was our last stop before going home. At Omiya station, we were met by Mr. Shuji Honda and his better half, Mercy. The couple would have wanted to treat us dinner but because we were so full we acceded to simple snacks. It was kind of the couple to meet us at the train despite the heavy schedule of Mr. Honda. He looks different from his usual attire as an artist. In business suit he can be on equal footing with the kaicho (President in English) that we had met earlier in Kagoshima, Shizuoka, Sendai and Fukushima.

October 26, 2013, at Mitaka City Hotel we were fetched by Yusuke, Mr. Uchida’s grandchild, and his better half. From there we proceeded to the Rehabilitation Center where Mr. Uchida was undergoing medical attention. He looked well, and memory-wise he could still recall our accomplishments in the past such as treating me as his sister, his love for Ines and the growth of the association, the school

being a project cherished by his wife Ayako Sensei.

The trip served as a gauge of how the descendants were treated by their respective “syachou”. Clearly they were comfortable where they stood. They had great accommodations, even better than what they would have had here. Those who want peace and tranquility are in Kagoshima. Expenses there can be keep at a minimum, which would help the descendants save plenty. Saving however isn’t exclusive to those living in Kagoshima. Even if some descendants live in other places, because they live within their means they are still able to save. It is with discipline and curtailment of one’s vices that these people generate a healthy life. Truly, the descendants are lucky. They need not sell any of your property. Their being a descendant is already an asset.

Sep

2015

“Annual Memorial Service”

By Admin

Annual Memorial Service

15^th August, 2013 @ Mintal Cemetery

By: Koichi Ibara

Director and Consul of Japan in Davao

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good Morning!!!

As I can see many representatives and members from Japanese community, please allow me to speak in Japanese as well as in English.

First of all, I would like to thank all of you for having joined us in our Annual Memorial Service this morning. I cannot help but to feel humbled and solemn today as I look back together with you on the past and envisage the future.

It was more than a century ago when the relationship between Japan and Davao began. The earliest record of the arrival of Japanese settlers in Davao was in 1903. Davao, with its flourishing Abaka industry, eventually became the destination of many Japanese nationals as the land of hope for a brighter future.

Due to the dedication of these early Japanese settlers who worked hard together, they prospered and became successful. They also helped Davao achieve economic growth through their robust economic expansion at that time.

But the entry of Japan into the war in 1941 changed the entire situation. The people of the whole nation including those in Davao became witnesses to the most tragic episode in the history of Japan-Philippine relationship.

The relations of goodwill which had been created by the Japanese and local communities in Davao totally collapsed. The Philippines, however, became one of the first countries in Asia which warmly welcomed and received Japan’s renewed friendly policies after the war.

On this occasion, I would like to express, on behalf of the people of Japan, my deep gratitude to the people of the Philippines for the generosity, noble spirit of reconciliation and hospitality.

Under the most amicable bilateral relations between Japan and the Philippines, we are here this morning to remember and honor our ancestors who have gone before us prior to the war.

I just would like to bring to your knowledge that around 80 Japanese people from the Okinawa Davao Friendship Society and the Association of Bereaved Families in Okinawa visited this cemetery on 28^th July and, with the kind cooperation extended by PNJK, they held the memorial service and offered their prayers.

It was both humbling and inspiring to see a group of so many people coming here all the way from Okinawa and keeping up the tradition of remembering and honoring their departed ancestors.

As I stand here today, I feel privileged to have been given the opportunity to co-organize this year’s Memorial Service to honor and express our respect to those forefathers who built the bridge of friendship and goodwill between Japan and Davao during the prewar period.

I hope we will continue to work together as friends and partners in overcoming the challenges ahead and in renewing our noble sense of mission of offering our prayers to the soul of our ancestors.

I have no doubt whatsoever that we will all be able to continue walking ahead together, like our forefathers before us, on the road towards further prosperity and success.

I would like to conclude this speech by expressing again my heartfelt appreciation to all the people who have attended this significant Memorial Service this morning.

Thank you very much.

Sep

2015

“Philippine-Japan Festival”

By Admin

Philippine-Japan Festival

By: Ret. Judge Antonina B. Escovilla

PNJK President

For an event as important as the Philippine-Japan Festival everybody was ushered to the Conference Room of PNJK Inc. to discuss the activities to be held from October 1 to 5, 2013. The meeting was presided by our energetic and able PNJK 1^st Vice President Ines P. Mallari, our current MKD President and at the same time the President of the Federation of the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai. Various committees were created, headed by responsible teaching staff of both MKD and PNJK-IS. Staff from other entities under the umbrella of PNJK Inc. were likewise given their assignments.

After holding three meetings, and satisfied with the reports given by each committee head, the activities that the public would witness came to their final stage. The scheduled activities were as follows:

October 01, 2013 Free Medical Clinic and Blood Letting under the supervision of Mrs. Anita P. Iwamoto, Managing Director of the PNJK Polyclinic and Diagnostic Center.

October 02, 2013 from 8:30 to 9:00 in the morning and armed with the necessary permit was the Motorcade cruising along PNJK-Bajada-Quirino and back to PNJK compound. A number of parents of students of PNJK-IS happily joined the motorcade.

After the motorcade the Kick-off Program and Awarding Ceremony was held at the PNJK-IS Gym.

Fellowship lunch for the invited guests, officials, faculty and staff was held at the MKD Sky Gym.

Thereafter, our special guest in the person of the Ambassador Toshinao Urabe, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, lectured on the Philippine-Japan Relations and the venue was the MKD AVR. Students of MKD in attendance were so eager and interested in listening to a very informative lecture as it would enhance their knowledge relevant to the chosen career the International Studies.

Eigasai and Filipino Movie Festival were shown to students not only of the College but to all levels of the PNJK-IS. The general public enjoyed watching the Nihongo and Tagalog Singing Contest held at PNJK-IS Gym. Filipino students participated in Nihongo Singing Contest while Foreign Students were tasked to sing Tagalog songs.

October 03, 2013 we continued showing the Eigasai and Filipino Movie to students from the Elementary, High School and College Department. In the same day, Japanese and Filipino Cultural Lessons were held. There were Academic and Cultural Competitions as well participated in by students from the Elementary and High School Levels.

October 04, 2013 was the Nihongo Speech and Balak Contest. Participants from other schools and colleges joined the contest. There were Karate demonstration and Sumo Competition.

The awarding ceremony took place thereafter, followed by the most colorful event the Bon Odori. Everybody joined the evening affair, wearing kimono, yukata and hapi, dancing as a group to the tune of lively Japanese songs.

On October 05, 2013 the Recorder Ensemble Competition was held at the PNJK-IS Calinan Branch where officers and members of the Kichijoji Lions Club were in attendance. School bags from Japan were distributed by the Lions Club members to participants of the Recorder Ensemble. Students from various public and private schools were beneficiaries of these bags. By its appearance the bags were made of quality material and durable in character.

In the end, all those who have given their time, sacrifice and labors were satisfied with the result of the events. They can truly say that the celebration of the Philippine-Japan Festival was a great success. A great number of viewers and participants went home with contentment and joy.

Sep

2015

“11th Philippine-Japan Festival” By: Ms. Lorellie Jubilado

By Admin

Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai Family still couldn’t enclose the enthusiasm every time they prepare and celebrate the annual Philippine-Japan Festival. The jaunty celebration was the result of the consolidated efforts of the human resources from the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai Inc., Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School, Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku, PNJK Polyclinic, Japan-Philippine Volunteers Association, PNJK Polyclinic and Multi-Purpose Cooperative, students, parents and members of the community in cooperation with the Embassy of Japan, Japan Information and Cultural Center, Japan Foundation, Tokyo Kichijoji Lions Club, Consular Office of Japan in Davao, Datu Uchida Development Foundation, Davao Japanese Association, JCCM, NISVA and JAM.

This year’s Philippine Japan Festival’s theme is “Philippine-Japan and Southeast Asian Nations Sharing Cultural Values towards ASEAN 2015”. Spearheaded by the school directress Mrs. Ines P. Mallari, the members of the Philippine-Japan committee dedicated much of their time just to come up with a very impressive and memorable celebration.

The week-long celebration started last October 1, 2013 with its medical clinic and blood-letting activity with a minimal fee of fifty pesos. The medical mission was organized by the PNJK Polyclinic and Diagnostics personnel. The following day, October 2, 2013, the motorcade was done at 8:30 wherein more than a hundred joined the said motorcade. It was followed with the Kick-off Program which served as the avenue where one could take a look at the diverse cultures of Asia. The kick-off program showcased different presentations which started with the bee – dance from the cute and jolly preschoolers to the amusement of everyone. Traditional dances of Philippines and Indonesia, the hand mime, the Taiko and Omikoshi practice of Japan were presented by the PNJK family. The kick-off program was graced by prominent national and local personalities like Honorable Toshinao Urabe-Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, Honorable Eko Hartono – Indonesian Consul, Honorable Abdullah Zawawi Tahir – Malaysian Consul General, Honorable Mabel Sunga-Acosta – Davao City Councilor, Rev. Masataka Ajiro – President, Japan-Philippines Volunteer Association, Japanese friends and visitors, members of the Board of Trustees of PNJKIS, DAPRISA Officers and members and other invited guests.

In the afternoon of October 2, 2013, was the Nihongo and Tagalog Singing Contest wherein pupils, students and employees showcased their knack in singing. The Nihongo Singing Contest was also participated in by contestants from other schools like Yagi Method Children’s Academy, Sekolah Indonesia, Ateneo de Davao, Holy Cross of Sasa, and Davao City National High School. Simultaneous with the Nihongo and Tagalog Singing Contest was a Lecture on Philippine-Japan Relations at the MKD AVR. The Eigasai and Filipino Movie Festival also started in the afternoon of October 2.

The Cultural Lessons were taught on October 3, 2013 where participants were given the chance to learn the cultures of both Philippines and Japan. The cultural lessons taught were the following:

Ikebana
Origami
Calligraphy
Japanese Food Cooking
Filipino Food Cooking
Laro ng Lahi
Yukata Wearing
Chopsticks Lessons
Eigasai
Japanese Games

In the afternoon of October 3, 2013 was the Inter-School Quiz Bee for High School, which was attended by eighteen (18) schools, Essay Writing Contest for College and On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest for the intermediate. A “Flea Market” was also organized at the PNJKIS baseball field. The garage sale ran from October 2-4, 2013.

The Nihongo Speech and Balak Contest was held in the morning of October 4, 2013 at the MKD AVR where contestants compete among themselves who is the best in speaking the Japanese language. Foreign students on the other hand showed their dexterity in speaking the local language of Davao in the Balak competition. In the afternoon was the Karate demonstration and Sumo competition that was followed by the Awarding ceremony held at the PNJKIS covered court. Simultaneously, the Omochitsuki or Rice Pounding Activity was also done. During the awarding ceremony, pupils, students, parents and members of the PNJK Family were already wearing their Yukata and Happi in anticipation for the much awaited “Bon Odori”. Pupils, students, parents, alumni, pnjk family and visitors, old and new, shared the same excitement and thrill even though some are no longer neophytes to the said ceremony. The “Bon Odori” is one of the highlights of the entire celebration of the Philippine-Japan Festival. It is the most anticipated ceremony of the entire PNJK family, parents, alumni and even students from other schools in the region.

The Philippine-Japan Festival 2013 ended with a triumph as elementary and high school students of PNJKIS bagged the second place in their respective categories in the Recorder Ensemble Contest held at PNJKIS Calinan Campus last October 5, 2013.

Mrs. Ines P. Mallari, head of the Philippine-Japan Festival 2013 planning committee was very happy with the turn-out of the celebration; saying that this year’s festival was a successful one because of the consolidated efforts of those people who poured out their time and effort just to have a successful program. She also said that, this year’s Philippine-Japan Festival is the most festive in all Phil-Japan celebrations. Truly this is an indication that unity could be achieved if respect to others culture is practice. To the PNJK Family, omedetou gozaimashita for a very successful Philippine-Japan Festival!

Sep

2015

PNJK-IS Educational Tour April 14-18, 2014 – Osaka, Japan By: Ret Judge Antonina B. Escovilla

By Admin

April 14, 2014, in the evening, PNJK-IS team arrived at Kansai Airport, Osaka, Japan. In a few minutes, the bus owned by the Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute, Kansai, came on schedule.

Upon reaching the Institute, each was handed an envelope containing instructions as regards the schedule of classes, trip to Kyoto, the use of our IDs and meal time.

The following day, we underwent orientation and self-introduction ceremony. Hee-jeong Shin san was our emcee and took the liberty of introducing to us the composition of the staff in the Learning Section. Her English is flawless but of course Nihongo was used most of the time.

The Vice-Director of Japan Foundation Akihiko Murata San gave his welcome address. The word “lucky” was given emphasis in his message. Truly, we were lucky because not only was the weather very cooperative but the sakura flowers were still in full bloom. You see along the avenue trees bearing sakura flowers of various colors.

The next was the tour of the center. We were ushered to two storey buildings where classes are held. You see students from other countries in the classroom and even in corridors during their free time. We then proceeded to the canteen and how to order food during meal period. The security area was part of the tour as well as the exterior part of the edifice. The facilities are so impressive that all basic needs are within your reach.

In the afternoon classes intended for our group commenced. What is admirable is that all of the staff and teachers can speak English. You will be amazed how good they are and so courteous, kind and accommodating. Evening of the second day the group went out of the Center. A bus is there for the use of the occupants of the center. There is a schedule when the bus leaves the Center and the time it goes back. The ride was free provided the destination is the Namba area. It was fun to explore in unfamiliar area and how to put into use the little knowledge that you have in Nihongo.

April 16, 2014 was the trip to Kyoto. Shin san was with us, so gorgeous that you feel baffled why a native of Korea is in Japan working just like any ordinary Japanese without any qualms. We had a tour guide. A good one and can crack joke without changing facial expression. At times you find yourself believing in what he just said.

My task is the visit to Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. The other name of the Golden Pavilion is Kinkaku. The visit took place on April 16, 2014. It was an exciting and enjoyable trip with a lot of souvenir shops lined up along the pathway going to the site. We were forewarned by the tour guide before proceeding to the temple that we should be alert at all times lest one or more will be lost due to the presence of hundreds of tourists composed of students who were on field trip, group of Japanese adults and foreigners like us.

Kinkaku (The Golden Pavilion) originally was known as Rokuon-ju Temple. It is a zen Buddist temple. Because of its fame the former US President George Bush visited the site and took photos of a very unique heritage of Japan.

The Golden Pavilion is surrounded by a man-made lake and can be seen at a distance. The temple is a three-storey edifice and each floor has different designs. Koto Nobu residence style can be found at the

first floor while the second floor is samurai style and the third is zen style. The ceiling is covered with gold. About 20 kilos were used. Installed on the floor is black lacquer and because of its reflection goldis very prominent. On the side of the floor ashes are kept. Buddhist ashes and bone are stored on that side. Looking closely at the Golden Pavilion square miniature carved on the wall is noticeable. Those represent about 200 thousand set of real gold leaf weighing 20 kilos assessed at more than 700 million yen.

The Golden Pavilion is accessible only to the King and the Prince. No other person is allowed to enter the said temple. On top of the temple is an oriental phoenix, a symbol of happiness. According to some, Phoenix represents shogun that looks after Japan.

After the temple we were ushered to a bonsai tree which is 600 years old. In the beginning it was so small but shogun loved it so much that he planted it on the spot as photographed and has grown that big yet still considered as bonsai.

There is a tea house right within the area where the Golden Pavilion is located. The kinkaku is especially beautiful when seen from the tea house late in the afternoon sun. This view is reflected in the tea house named Sekkatei (Place of Evening Beauty).

At the temple is a statute of the Buddhist Deity Fudo-Ryo-o. It is believed that the statute was made in the 9^th century. Though hidden from the public view, the image has long been revered for its miraculous powers. Open door rituals are held on Setsubun early February and on August 16.

April 17, 2014 was the day of proving to all of the success of the learning session. All participants were asked to state in the Japanese language the experience encountered in Kyoto. Though not perfectly delivered, there was, to my assessment, 80% satisfaction of the performance of everyone. Our graduation came to an end with memories that will forever be cherished by each. The generosity of Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute in allowing the group to stay is highly appreciated. We have witnessed the patience and understanding demonstrated by the teachers and staff to all who are still struggling in learning the language as well as embracing the culture that we aim to inculcate to our students and even to our members of the family. Preserving the heritage is one and what is most important is time consciousness. To me time is gold. We can more if time management is well observed.

Let me thank the management of Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute for this rare opportunity allowing us the use of the center and study the language even for such a short stint and the chance to see Osaka, Japan more so the preserved heritage in Kyoto. Thank you so much – from the PNJK International School Group and we hope to see you all in one of your visits in our place.