During our field sampling in Leyte, we came across a park in Tacloban City that was devoted to the Madonna of Japan. However, both our Japanese companions and ourselves were curious about the identity of the Madonna of Japan.

Situated adjacent to the Tacloban City Hall, the Madonna of Japan was erected 33 years after World War II. This monument serves as a memorial to the courageous soldiers who fought and lost their lives during the war.

When we arrived at the Park, we have noticed that the actual Madonna of Japan is Kannon-sama, an extremely popular deity in Japanese Buddhism. Kannon-sama is often associated with compassion, mercy, and healing, and is considered a symbol of infinite compassion and enlightenment.

Additionally known as the Goddess of Peace statue, this majestic sculpture is situated atop a rock within a landscaped garden. It stands tall as a symbol of peace between the Filipino and Japanese.