Participants and organizers gather for a virtual group photo during the First Installment of the Hiraya Lecture Series. (Photo on the left courtesy of AFSJ).
The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Faculty of Information and Communication Studies (FICS), in partnership with the Association of Filipino Scholars in Japan (AFSJ), launched the Hiraya Lecture Series on 24 July 2026, bringing together over 100 scholars, practitioners, and leaders to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan and strengthen academic and cultural collaboration between the two countries.
Held virtually via Zoom, the inaugural installment carried the theme “Celebrating 70 Years of Philippine-Japan Relations: Looking Back, Moving Forward.” The lecture series derives its Filipino concept hiraya, which represents the realization of one’s hopes and aspirations. This reflects the initiative’s vision of fostering meaningful dialogue and sustained collaboration between the two nations.
AFSJ President Kevin Brandon Saure (left) introduces AFSJ, while UPOU Chancellor Dr. Joane V. Serrano (right) delivers the opening remarks.
The program began with an overview of AFSJ provided by its President, Kevin Brandon Saure, followed by opening remarks from UPOU Chancellor Dr. Joane V. Serrano. The event featured presentations from FICS Dean Dr. Roberto B. Figueroa, Jr., joined fellow speakers Dr. Karl Ian Uy Cheng Chua of UP Asian Center; Cultural Officer Ms. Takako Kanai of Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan; and Engr. Cesar Abaca, Jr., Interim President of Filipino Professionals in Japan (FPiJ).
The speakers explored key areas of Philippine-Japan cooperation, including Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), arts and culture, people-to-people exchanges, academic and research collaboration, and future directions for bilateral relations. The discussions highlighted shared aspirations for expanding educational partnerships and strengthening cross-border cooperation.
(Clockwise from top left) Dr. Karl Ian Uy Cheng Chua, Dr. Roberto B. Figueroa, Jr., Engr. Cesar Abaca, Jr., and Ms. Takako Kanai share perspectives on academic cooperation, cultural exchange, people-to-people ties, and the future of Philippine-Japan relations during the inaugural Hiraya Lecture Series.
The event concluded with closing remarks from AFSJ Vice President for Academic Affairs Mr. Lianne Angelico Depante.
Through its partnership with AFSJ and initiatives such as the Hiraya Lecture Series, FICS advances its mission of advancing information and communication studies through international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Written by: Loren P. Sta. Ana
Edited by: Asst. Prof. Shaira F. Tanay