Meeting the consul

When I received the email that the consul-general of Japan in Cebu wanted to see me for dinner, I was in shock. I had never received any diplomatic invitation before, except for press conferences and media immersions with officials. Of course, I had to say yes. Even if it meant constantly wondering what the experience would be like: What should I wear? What should we talk about? Should I bow or shake his hand? What are the protocols? The overthinker in me couldn't help but blabber on.

All these worries faded when I finally met the man, Mr. Yudai Ueno. He was soft-spoken and funny, genuinely curious about what it meant to be a journalist in today's world. We talked about my work as a correspondent, a writer, and a teacher while reflecting on how journalism continues to shape the youth. There was no intimidating formality, only an engaging conversation over good food. It reminded me that diplomacy is not limited to strategic meetings between governments. Sometimes, it begins with simple conversations between people who are willing to listen to one another.

I first heard the term "people-to-people" during one of our diplomatic engagements in Australia, only to realize that it already exists in our everyday lives. Our shared culture with Japan goes beyond the difficult chapters of history. Today, its influence can be found in the food we eat, the music we enjoy, and the technology we use. Many Japanese businesses have flourished in Cebu, from the shipbuilding industry in Balamban to the manufacturing plants in Lapu-Lapu City. We admire the Japanese discipline in organization and their appreciation for minimalism, while also embracing their philosophy of finding joy in the ordinary. Even the custom of raising our glasses and shouting "kanpai!" feels familiar, perhaps because many of us grew up watching anime after school and unknowingly absorbed bits of Japanese culture along the way.

There were many things I uncovered during that memorable dinner, including how Japan has positioned itself among its allies despite the challenges of the past. The relationship between our two countries has become one of mutual exchange. We share tourism, trade, investments, manpower, and even education through the growing demand for Filipino English teachers in Japan. More importantly, we continue to learn from each other. With more than seven decades of diplomatic relations, the Philippines has benefited from this enduring friendship. At a time when tensions continue to rise in our region, having partners who stand with us in upholding international law carries even greater significance.

Japan remains one of the countries I have enjoyed visiting the most, not because of its attractions alone but because of the values I encountered in everyday life. Respect, discipline, and quiet excellence seem woven into the ordinary. Meeting Consul-General Ueno reminded me that diplomacy is not always about grand speeches or formal negotiations. Sometimes, it is as simple as sharing a meal, exchanging stories, and discovering that despite different languages and traditions, we have far more in common than we often realize.

BLURB: “Diplomacy is not always about grand speeches or formal negotiations. Sometimes, it is as simple as sharing a meal.”