Japan envoy honors ex-finance chief Purisima• Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya hosted on Monday a reception to congratulate former trade and finance secretary Cesar Purisima on his conferment of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. As trade secretary from 2003 to 2005, Purisima’s office played a significant role during negotiations for the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement, the Philippines’ first bilateral free trade agreement. In recognition of his contributions, the medal and certificate were presented to Purisima. During the ceremony, Endo lauded Purisima for his contributions to strengthening the economic partnership between Japan and the Philippines. Business executives also graced the ceremony: Philippine Stock Exchange chairman Jose Pardo, Jollibee Foods Corp. CEO Tony Tan Caktiong, JG Summit Holdings president Lance Gokongwei, Bank of the Philippine Islands president Jose Limcaoco, SM Investments chairman Amando Tetangco Jr. and Ayala Corp. president Cezar Consing.