President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday departed for Japan to lead the inauguration of the Philippine Pavilion at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, and Finance Secretary Sonny Angara have been designated as caretakers during the President’s absence, according to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro.
“The President’s visit is primarily to attend the opening of the Philippine Pavilion, which proudly showcases our rich culture and beautiful landscapes,” Castro said in a Palace briefing.
“This is part of our continued effort to expand tourism and promote national pride on the global stage,” she added.
The PCO official added that Mr. Marcos is also scheduled to hold business meetings and spend time with members of the Filipino community in Japan.
“We were only informed of business meetings at this time,” Castro said.
The presidential delegation is reportedly small, though specific members were not disclosed.
Castro addressed concerns over the lack of prior public announcement about the trip, saying the visit was a scheduled engagement focused on the expo.
“There is no specific reason to withhold the information. This is a longstanding commitment tied to the Philippine Pavilion,” Castro explained.
The President is expected to return to Manila by the weekend.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Marcos leaves for Japan to lead Philippine Pavilion opening”
