spot_img
29 C
Philippines
Thursday, March 28, 2024

DoT eyes tours of Blessed Justo sites

- Advertisement -

THE Department of Tourism 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 agency said on Wednesday.

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 dormitory in Intramuros, Manila, said DoT Secretary Wanda 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.

Blessed Justo was known as Takayama, a feudal lord who chose to give up his wealth, embraced Christianity and suffered persecution. 

After a year-long sea voyage, he and his family reached Manila in 1615 but died of illness 40 days later under the care of the Jesuits in Manila.

- Advertisement -

Also referred to as Justus “the Japanese Servant of God,” Takayama was beatified and proclaimed “Blessed” last Feb. 7 by Cardinal Angelo Amato on 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 historian Dr. Vic 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,” said Millar.

DOT National Capital Region officer-in-charge Catherine Agustin said the photo exhibit would run until Feb. 24 at the Manila Cathedral.  

She added a bigger than life statue of Blessed Justo Takayama Ukon could 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.

- Advertisement -

LATEST NEWS

Popular Articles