Comfortable Life for the "Comfort Women"

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan visited the Philippines from January 26 – 30, 2016. The visit aimed to maintain peace and friendship between our country and Japan. On January 29, 2016, several Filipinos in advanced age staged a rally at the Japanese embassy asking for public apology and compensation from the Japanese Government. They claimed that they were Japanese sexual slaves during the World War II. The lawyer of the group expressed his disappointment as President Aquino failed to bring up the issue of the so called comfort women in his formal meeting with Japan’s Head of State. [1]

The Japanese Constitution grants the Emperor a limited power. His functions are purely ceremonial. No power related to the government is vested upon him. The Emperor’s performance of acts in matters of the state on behalf of the people should have an advice and approval by the Cabinet. [2]

I sympathize to these elderly women who suffered enough in their younger years. It is really hard to move on from a devastating experience. They should be enjoying their lives now and they deserve an award for the moral damages and an apology.

I believe that the formal meeting with the emperor is not the proper venue to tackle the issue. The discussion for the apology and compensation for the victims of sexual slavery during World War II is a governmental function. It is clear in the Japanese Constitution that the Emperor’s acts in matters of the state should have an advice and approval from the Cabinet.

The Philippine government should be active enough to support the victims who are still alive. Our government should communicate and negotiate with Japan government to grant the compensation and apology. I believe that the grant has a high probability of succeeding since the Japanese government granted a monetary support to South Korean victims. 

[1] Filipino “comfort women” call for emperor’s help in seeking redress

www.japantimes.com/news/2016/01/29/national/filipino/-comfort-women-call-emperors-help-seeking-redress/#.VrQDyrZ97Mx

[2] The Constitution of Japan

japan.kaneti.go.jp/constitution_and_government_of_japan/constitution_e.html