Empress Masako attended the Japanese Red Cross Convention on May 15.

The Empress serves as the Japanese Red Cross Society's honorary president.

She handed awards to 13 individuals and groups recognized for their contributions to Red Cross activities.

Other female members of the Imperial family, who are honorary vice presidents, also joined the nationwide conference.

A university student in earthquake-hit Ishikawa Prefecture, who volunteered in Wajima City, also reported on her activities.

Princess Aiko, who entered the society in April, attended the event as a Society member.