The Okada Foundation, Inc. (OFI), the charitable arm of Okada Manila, has donated PHP 3 million to the Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation, Inc. (ACCPFI) to support Filipino artists and scholars participating in international artistic exchange programs. The contribution helps fund a six-month residency abroad, giving selected Filipino creatives opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and cultural exchange with global peers. To mark the partnership, OFI hosted a meet and greet with Ms. Josie Natori, Chairman of the Asian Cultural Council (ACC), on March 13, 2026 at Okada Manila, bringing together representatives and partners to strengthen collaboration in advancing Filipino arts and culture.
The gathering provided an opportunity for OFI representatives and partners to engage with Ms. Natori and reaffirm a shared commitment to expanding international opportunities for Filipino artists and scholars. The partnership supports initiatives that allow Filipino creatives to build global connections, refine their craft, and bring new perspectives back to the local arts community.
Founded in 1963 by John D. Rockefeller III, the Asian Cultural Council has played a key role in fostering international cultural exchange across disciplines in the arts. Over the decades, the organization has granted more than 300 awards supporting artists, scholars, and cultural practitioners in pursuing cross-cultural study, collaboration, and artistic development around the world.
In the Philippines, ACC works closely with the Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation, Inc., which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Since its establishment in 2000, ACCPFI has supported generations of Filipino artists, including National Artists such as Lamberto Avellana, Jose Joya, and Alice Reyes. Through fellowships, grants, and international exchanges, the foundation continues to provide Filipino creatives with opportunities to share their work globally while contributing to the country’s cultural landscape.
“Our contribution to the Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation helps sustain programs that open doors for Filipino artists to participate in international residencies and collaborative exchanges,” said James Lorenzana, President of the Okada Foundation, Inc. “Through this support, we hope to empower more Filipino creatives to represent the Philippines on the global stage.”
The initiative was guided by Okada Green Heart, Okada Manila’s sustainability and community engagement program under its Talent and Community pillar, which supports initiatives that promote individual growth, cultural development, and meaningful community connections.
Through initiatives that support Filipino artists and scholars, the Okada Foundation continues to contribute to the advancement of Philippine arts and culture while creating pathways for local talent to engage with the global creative community.