Davao City, Philippines – In a reaffirmation of decades-long friendship, Davao City warmly welcomed Okinawa Vice Governor Hon. Oshiro Hajime and a 30-member delegation on July 23, 2025, during a courtesy visit to Acting Mayor Hon. Sebastian Z. Duterte at The Royal Mandaya Hotel.
The visit highlighted the enduring cultural and historical ties between the people of Davao and Okinawa, while paving the way for expanded cooperation in trade, tourism, labor, and cultural exchange.
In his message, Vice Governor Oshiro expressed deep appreciation for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation during what he described as a meaningful first visit to the city. He acknowledged the emotional and historical connection between Okinawans and Davaoeños—formed during World War II and nurtured through generations.
This relationship continues to be celebrated through annual commemorations such as the Iresai, a cultural tradition that draws Okinawan families back to Davao to honor their ancestors.
One of the most poignant moments of the visit was a trip to the Okinawa Monument at Mintal Cemetery, where the delegation paid tribute to their forebears. Among the group was a 98-year-old participant, underscoring the lasting emotional bond many Okinawans maintain with Davao. Vice Governor Oshiro extended sincere gratitude to the Davao City Government for its efforts in preserving the site with dignity and respect.
Looking forward, Vice Governor Oshiro expressed optimism about enhanced partnerships, including providing avenues for young Davaoeños to study, work, or live in Okinawa—further enriching cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Acting Mayor Duterte welcomed the delegation with warmth and admiration, noting the shared history of resilience between Davao and Okinawa. He emphasized Davao’s commitment to deepening ties and expressed interest in visiting Okinawa in the near future, describing it as a region of “rich culture and natural beauty.”
Duterte also proposed the possibility of establishing direct air connectivity between Davao and Okinawa, which he said would greatly benefit tourism, economic ties, and people-to-people exchanges. “You will always be welcome here,” he told the delegation, “not just as visitors, but as friends and extended family.”
Several city officials joined the courtesy call, including Atty. Rachel Zozobrado, Chair of the SP Committee on International Relations; Hon. Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz, Chair of the SP Committee on Trade, Commerce and Industry, and Tourism and Beautification; Hon. Ragde Niño Ibuyan, Chair of the SP Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization; Ms. April Marie C. Dayap, Officer-in-Charge of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center; and Mr. Harvey James Lanticse, Officer-in-Charge of the City Information Office.
The visit marked not only the continuation of goodwill but a renewed commitment to future cooperation. As Davao and Okinawa chart the path ahead, they do so as kindred communities—united by shared history, respect, and a common vision for a more collaborative future.