We are pleased to announce that Japan's largest mobile international remittance service, ‘Smiles Mobile Remittance’, will be the major sponsor of the Philippine Festival 2023.

The Philippine Festival 2023 will be held in collaboration with the Philippine Assistance Group (PAG) Festival Committee and the Philippine Embassy, taking place on November 25 and 26, 2023, at Yoyogi Park in Tokyo. This festival is the largest Philippine-related event held in Japan.

This event, which is held annually to celebrate the Filipino cultural heritage, gathers thousands of people to share in that sentiment, featuring over 60 booths and activities within the venue, including stalls offering Filipino cuisine and commercial services from mobile networks and airlines.

As a major sponsor of the festival, ‘Smiles Mobile Remittance’ will not only enhance the experience of festival participants but will also provide various activities that promote international connections. This aligns with the mission of its parent company, Digital Wallet Inc. 

This year's theme, celebrating the 7th anniversary of Smiles, reflects the community spirit of the Philippines: 'We are champions.' 

Comment from Digital Wallet Inc. CEO Hideji Miyakawa

“This theme celebrates and thanks all customers who have overcome challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that each person has acted as a 'champion' in their daily lives for their family, friends, business partners, or home country, and we want to create a place where we can take pride in that together.”

Despite being one of the worst pandemics affecting the current generation, Overseas Filipinos have remained a reliable source for the growth and stability of the Philippine economy through their remittances. The amount remitted by OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) increased even during the pandemic. The love for family, bayanihan, Filipino humor, patience, and spirit of hospitality characterize the 'Pinoy' spirit, aligning with the 7th anniversary theme of 'We are champions.'

Smiles takes pride in this philosophy, supporting the belief that every customer is a champion contributing to a stronger international community.

Smiles Mobile Remittance, characterized by deep involvement in culture and charity, looks forward to providing an immersive experience at the event. Participants can expect an engaging and interactive Smiles booth showcasing various activities reflecting the mission and the 7th-anniversary tagline.

The revenue collected from these sponsorships will not only stimulate the success of the event but will also transform into aid for Filipinos in Japan. This support extends to urgent needs, such as repatriating the remains of deceased individuals, providing aid to Filipinos in difficult circumstances under the care of the Philippine Embassy, and offering assistance during disasters affecting the Philippines. This is yet another strong reason why Smiles decided to become a major sponsor, with its mission always aimed at creating a peaceful and sustainable international community through action.

After the event concludes, Smiles Mobile Remittance's commitment to international unity will continue, working to improve the lives of international citizens through high-tech services and life-changing activities.