The Department of Tourism (DOT) will launch a new travel initiative to tap into the Japan niche market following the recent beatification of a Japanese martyr who died in exile in 1615 in the Philippines.
The life story of Blessed Justo Takayama Ukon has stirred a growing interest, particularly in the places he stayed in before he succumbed to illness in a Jesuit residence in Intramuros, Manila, said Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon T. Teo.
“I can’t help seeing this noble opportunity to deepen and strengthen friendship between Filipinos and the Japanese with this very inspiring development,” said Teo, whose mother is of Japanese descent.
Also referred to as “the Japanese Servant of God”, Takayama Ukon was a feudal lord who embraced Christianity, suffered persecution and chose to give up his wealth, After a monthlong sea voyage, he and his family reached Manila in 1614 but died of illness 40 days later under the care of the Jesuits in Manila. Takayama was beatified on February 7 by Cardinal Angelo Amato in behalf of Pope Francis in Osaka, Takayama’s birthplace.
Teo directed DOT Undersecretary Falconi Millar to oversee the familiarization tour program intended for Japanese tourists, who wish to pay homage to Blessed Justo in the Philippines.
Millar led the opening ceremonies of the photo exhibit, while De La Salle scholar Dr. Jose Victor Torres conducted a lecture at the Manila Cathedral on the Japanese martyr’s life and historical records, organized and hosted by the DOT National Capital Region and Intramuros Administration.
“Holding this photo exhibit and facilitating the familiarization tour of Intramuros and other sites, where Blessed Justo spent his last days, will be our humble way of honoring the memory of Blessed Justo,” Millar said.
DOT NCR OIC Catherine Agustin added that a life-size monument of Blessed Justo Takayama Ukon can be found at the Plaza Dilao in Paco, Manila, and another one on the grounds of the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School in España, Manila.