MITSUKOSHI BGC marks three years of Japanese-Filipino ties
PhilSTAR Property joined members of the media at the anniversary launch on July 16, where guests were welcomed by energetic taiko drumming, a festive Mikoshi procession, cultural performances, and the unveiling of Mitsuko—the mall’s beloved kokeshi doll—wearing a new costume inspired by the colors of the Philippine and Japanese flags.
More than a milestone celebration, MITSUKOSHI BGC’s third anniversary became a tribute to seven decades of friendship between Japan and the Philippines, bringing together culture, community, and shared traditions in a celebration inspired by Japan’s beloved Tanabata Festival.
The celebration reflected the vision that has guided MITSUKOSHI BGC since it opened in 2023 within The Seasons Residences, the Japanese-inspired development by Federal Land in partnership with Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd.
For Federal Land Chairman Alfred V. Ty, the project has always been about more than retail.
“When Federal Land, Nomura Real Estate Development, and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings came together, we did not simply aspire to build another residential development or another shopping destination. We wanted to create a place where the very best of Japan and the Philippines could come together naturally, where culture could be experienced, friendships could grow, and families could feel at home,” he said.
Reflecting on the development’s journey, Ty added that the vision conceived a decade ago has evolved into a destination embraced by Filipinos. Looking ahead, he said the commitment remains to create spaces that enrich everyday living through thoughtful design, authentic experiences, and the timeless values shared by both nations.
The anniversary also coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines, a milestone highlighted by Yokota Naobumi, Minister for Economic Affairs at the Embassy of Japan.
Since opening, he said, MITSUKOSHI BGC has become “much more than a department store,” describing it as one of Metro Manila’s most vibrant hubs of Japanese culture. More importantly, he noted that it serves as a place where Japanese residents find a sense of home while giving Filipinos opportunities to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
“The friendship between our two countries is built not only by government and businesses, but also by people-to-people connections and everyday exchange such as those that take place here at MITSUKOSHI BGC,” Yokota said.
For Masahiko Yoshizawa, General Manager of MITSUKOSHI BGC, the anniversary is both a moment to reflect and to look forward.
“Building a destination isn’t something that ends when the doors open. It continues every day—with every idea, every improvement, and every customer experience,” he said.
As the mall enters its fourth year, Yoshizawa shared that visitors can expect more authentic Japanese experiences, stronger collaborations, and new concepts that will continue strengthening the cultural bridge between Japan and the Philippines.
Running through August, the anniversary celebration invites visitors to experience Japanese traditions through cultural activities, workshops, shopping promotions, and seasonal events—continuing MITSUKOSHI BGC’s role as a place where Japanese culture and Filipino hospitality come together in everyday life.
AT A GLANCE: Experience Japan at MITSUKOSHI BGC
- Yukata Dressing Experience (July 18–August 15, Saturdays) with hairstyling and light makeup.
- Summer Paper Theater Workshop by Co. Collectibles (August 29) featuring Japanese papercraft.
- Ceramic Wishes: A Tanabata Pottery Experience (August 30) with pottery painting and wheel-throwing inspired by Japanese and Filipino motifs.
- Craft Pop-ups featuring EDYA1929’s fashion made from vintage Japanese kimonos and Frankie General Store’s contemporary pieces crafted from Philippine woven textiles.
- JCB Tama-nage Game with instant prizes and raffle entries for shoppers.
- Grand raffle prizes include a Sony PlayStation 5 Slim, Nintendo Switch 2, and Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Leather Kits.
- The Seasons Residences, directly connected to MITSUKOSHI BGC, offers Japanese-inspired homes with seamless access to authentic Japanese retail, dining, and cultural experiences.
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