Magsaysay Award Winner from the Philippines
"Japanese Committed Severe Atrocities During the War"
Japanese animation master Hayao Miyazaki (83) mentioned in his acceptance speech for this year's Ramon Magsaysay Award that the massacre of civilians during Japan's Pacific War must not be forgotten.
On the 24th, Asahi Shimbun reported that Director Miyazaki referred to the atrocities committed by Imperial Japan through a message read by Studio Ghibli director Yoda Kenichi at the Ramon Magsaysay Award ceremony held on the 16th in Manila, Philippines.
Miyazaki said, "Receiving this award made me think of the Philippines again," adding, "The Japanese committed severe cruelty during the war. Many civilians were killed. The Japanese must not forget this. It still remains."
He also solemnly accepted the fact that he was receiving the Ramon Magsaysay Award in the Philippines, where such history exists, and expressed his sincere gratitude.
In the past, Miyazaki has criticized the Japanese government’s passive stance on resolving historical issues, including statements that Japan should apologize for the comfort women issue.
The Ramon Magsaysay Award was established in 1957 to honor former Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay, who died in a plane crash. It is awarded to individuals or organizations that have contributed to peace and human rights promotion in the Asian region.
Previous recipients include Mother Teresa and the spiritual leader of Tibet, the Dalai Lama. This year, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation selected four individuals, including Director Miyazaki, and one organization as awardees.
Regarding the selection of Miyazaki as an awardee, the foundation stated, "His works not only achieved commercial success but also express a deep understanding of humanity, prompting viewers to reflect and show compassion," adding, "He helps children understand issues such as environmental protection, peace, and women’s rights through art."
Asahi reported that the foundation conveyed that Miyazaki’s message made them think about the importance of confronting and remembering past history for a better future between the two countries.
Miyazaki completed the film The Wind Rises in 2013 and announced his retirement from feature animation production at a press conference in September of the same year. However, in July last year, he returned to the film industry with a new work after 10 years, How Do You Live? This film, which he spent seven years creating and reflects his own life, received praise from both audiences and critics.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
