Japanese emperor, empress arrive in Philippines for state visit

Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko arrived Tuesday in the Philippines for a five-day state visit here.

Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III personally welcomed them during their arrival before 3:00 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Aquino who invited the Japanese royal couple here will welcome them in Malacanang, the presidential palace, on Wednesday.

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko will also be taking a side trip to northern province of Laguna where a Japanese memorial garden is located apart from their scheduled activities in Manila.

This is their first official visit to the Philippines since 1962 when they were the crowned prince and princess of Japan.

The Philippines and Japan commemorate their 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.