Two distinguished individuals were recently honored in the Japan Conferment Ceremony by Japan Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa. David F. Carter was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays for his dedication and promotion of judo in the Philippines, as well as his contributions to organizing tournaments and fostering international goodwill.
Lawyer Josue Sim Zuniega was also recognized and conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays for his tireless efforts in supporting the Japanese community in the Philippines, particularly in helping Filipino Nikkei-jin regain their Japanese identities and citizenship. Zuniega has been instrumental in the establishment of the Philippine Nikkei-jin Legal Support Center and has provided legal advice and assistance to over 1,500 Filipino Nikkei-jin.
Both awardees were lauded for their outstanding contributions to Japan-Philippines relations and for promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries. —CONTRIBUTED