On Wednesday, June 3, 2015,Their Imperial Majesties Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan met with the President of the Philippines, Mr. Benigno Aquino, at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

According to the newspaper, Philippine Star, President Aquino received:

“…Japan’s highest honor, the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum. The award was previously accorded to former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and members of Britain’s royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, and Prince William.

In return, Aquino bestowed the Order of Lakandula Grand Collar (Supremo) on Emperor Akihito, for his contributions to strengthening and pushing forward the relations between Japan and the Philippines.” 

In the evening, the Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko hosted a gala dinner in honor of President Aquino’s four-day state visit to Japan.