Terry KS THE PHILIPPINES, 17 JULY 2026 – Japan and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in 1956, laying the foundation for decades of friendship, economic cooperation and cultural exchange. Seventy years later, 2026 marks the Philippines-Japan Friendship Year, celebrating a partnership that continues to create meaningful opportunities for both nations.
Against this backdrop, JCB, the only international payment brand based in Japan, entered the Philippine market in 1996 with a vision to bring Japanese excellence in payments closer to Filipino consumers. Over the past three decades, JCB has grown alongside Filipino cardholders by delivering seamless payment experiences and creating more opportunities for them to experience Japan through travel benefits, merchant partnerships and collaborations with Japanese brands in both countries. As JCB celebrates its 30th anniversary in the Philippines, the company is also joining the commemoration of 70 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines, reaffirming its role as a bridge between the two nations. Through trusted partnerships and curated experiences inspired by Japanese culture, JCB continues to bring Japan closer to Filipino consumers while strengthening the enduring connection between the two countries.
To mark these shared milestones, JCB is launching a year-long celebration showcasing the connections it has built over the past three decades, spanning immersive cultural experiences, merchant collaborations, anniversary events and exclusive promotions inspired by the best of Japan. The company will hold a special anniversary event at SM Mega Fashion Hall from September 25 to 27, 2026. Beyond marking a corporate milestone, the event will also honor 70 years of friendship between Japan and the Philippines, highlighting JCB’s role in strengthening ties between the two nations through cultural exchange, trusted partnerships and shared experiences. The event will bring together JCB cardholders, banking partners, merchants and guests for a showcase of Japanese culture and collaborations, reflecting JCB’s commitment to creating experiences that go beyond payments.
As part of the celebrations, JCB is rolling out a series of anniversary-themed promotions inviting cardholders to experience Japanese culture and lifestyle through exclusive collaborations with participating partners. These include a Japan visa application fee of PHP 30 from July 1 to 31, 2026; USD 30 off Japan Airlines flights, with bookings open from July 15 to 31, 2026 for travel through May 31, 2027; ramen priced at PHP 30 at Ramen Kuroda every Tuesday from July 14 to September 29, 2026; and 30% off at Mitsukoshi Fresh and Beauty from July 16 to August 16, 2026. JCB Philippines Country Manager Wataru Tamura said the 30th anniversary represents far more than a corporate milestone. He described it as a celebration of the lasting relationships, shared experiences and cultural connections JCB has built with Filipino cardholders over the past three decades. Tamura added that JCB remains committed to serving as a bridge between the two nations by creating meaningful partnerships and introducing more Filipino people to Japanese culture, with the hope that these promotions and collaborations bring people closer to the richness of Japanese culture and the warmth of Filipino hospitality while inspiring future journeys together.
Thirty years after establishing its presence in the Philippines, JCB continues to evolve alongside the changing lifestyles of Filipino consumers while staying true to the Japanese values of innovation, trust and hospitality.
More information on JCB’s 30th anniversary promotions, offers from participating merchants and full promotional mechanics is available on the JCB Philippines website and its Facebook and Instagram pages. Terms and conditions apply, and promotional periods, eligibility requirements and redemption mechanics may vary per offer.