The 1995 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service

RESPONSE of  Morihiko Hiramatsu
Ramon Magsaysay Award Presentation Ceremonies
31 August 1995, Manila, Philippines

It is a great honor and privilege for me to receive this world-famous award, which is often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Asia.” I must say, however, that I cannot accept this award alone. I humbly accept this award on behalf of all the people of my prefecture who are persistently working toward regional revitalization.

Furthermore, this award will not only encourage the people of Japan involved in the “One Village, One Product” Movement but, I believe, it will inspire the people of various regions of Asia who have adopted this movement as well. The ultimate goal of the “One Village, One Product”’ Movement is to foster human resources. I sincerely hope that the movement will further create people who can think globally and act locally.

Last year, the first Asia-Kyushu Regional Summit was held in Oita. And the next summit will be here in Manila in October of this year. It is my earnest hope that this award, together with the summit, will further facilitate the peaceful interchange between various regions of Asia.

I would like to thank you once again for the great honor that you have bestowed upon me and, with my heartfelt gratitude, I accept this award.