LOOK: Japanese imperial couple lay wreath before Rizal Monument

The Japanese imperial couple have paid tribute to the country’s national hero Dr. Jose Rizal as they laid a wreath before his monument in Manila.

The Official Gazette, through its social media pages, shared photos of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko at the Rizal monument in Luneta.

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada was seen with the couple in the wreath-laying ceremony.

The Japanese emperor and empress are in the country for a historic five-day state visit to honor the fatalities of the Second World War in Manila, marking the 60^th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Japan and the Philippines.

The couple first visited the country in 1962 when they were still crown prince and princess. YG

PHOTOS from the Official Gazette