Hayao Miyazaki, a name that’s synonymous with some of the most iconic and thoughtful animated films ever created, made a rare but impactful statement recently.
On November 16, 2024, during his acceptance of the Ramon Magsaysay Award, Miyazaki called attention to Japan’s historical wartime atrocities—something not many public figures of his stature openly discuss.
Miyazaki didn’t attend the event in person (not surprising given his well-known reluctance to travel or make public appearances). Instead, Kenichi Yoda, a Studio Ghibli board member, delivered the speech on his behalf.
He explicitly acknowledged the atrocities committed by Japanese forces during World War II, specifically referencing the Battle of Manila in 1945.
For context, that battle is often referred to as one of the most devastating urban conflicts in the Pacific theater. Civilians bore the brunt of it, with estimates of over 100,000 deaths, most of them non-combatants. Miyazaki said, and I quote:
“During the war, Japanese forces committed terrible atrocities, killing countless civilians. As Japanese people, we must never forget this. It is something that will remain forever.”
This wasn’t a fleeting mention either. He tied his acknowledgment to the significance of receiving an award from the Philippines—a country that suffered deeply under Japanese occupation.
To give some background on the award itself: the Ramon Magsaysay Award is often dubbed “Asia’s Nobel Prize.” Named after the seventh president of the Philippines, it honors individuals who’ve made significant contributions to leadership, public service, and social change.
Miyazaki was announced as one of the 2024 awardees back in September, and his citation highlighted his lifelong work in animation as a tool to “illuminate the human condition.
Miyazaki has a history of being outspoken on social and political issues, though this particular statement feels weightier given the cultural and political implications. Japan’s wartime history is still a controversial subject, with many public figures and institutions choosing either to avoid it altogether or, worse, downplay it.
Miyazaki, however, has never been one to shy away from Japan’s darker chapters. His filmography reflects his anti-war stance and his deeply humanistic approach to storytelling.
The Wind Rises (2013), for example, is a nuanced exploration of Japan’s military-industrial complex, told through the lens of the Zero fighter plane’s designer. Critics both praised and debated the film for its portrayal of duty versus morality.
And it’s not just his films. Miyazaki has publicly criticized Japanese nationalism and the country’s tendency to romanticize its militaristic past. In interviews, he’s expressed disdain for politicians who attempt to whitewash history, calling it “shameful” and “dangerous.”
It’s worth noting that Miyazaki’s acceptance speech also carried a tone of humility. He reflected on first hearing about the Magsaysay Award as a child, emphasizing how its association with values like integrity and public service stuck with him. In his words:
“Against this historical backdrop, being presented with the ‘Magsaysay Award’ by the Philippines carries profound significance for me. I accept it with a solemn heart.”
Miyazaki’s statement is a rare instance of a public figure using an international platform to confront uncomfortable truths about their country’s history. It’s not the kind of thing we see every day, and it’s yet another reason why Miyazaki isn’t just a legendary filmmaker but also a voice of conscience in a world that often lacks one.
Also Read: Japan: Anime Fans Rank Best Anime In The History
Source: ANN
