The Ramon Magsaysay Awards presentation ceremony took place in Manila, the Philippines on November 16.

Asia’s premier prize and highest honor was awarded to Japanese animation director Miyazaki Hayao, who was not able to attend the ceremony.

Studio Ghibli's director Yoda Kenichi went on the stage and read comments by Miyazaki during the ceremony.

The Japanese people did a lot of terrible things during the war and killed many civilians, the letter said. The Japanese people must not forget this, and it will remain with them forever, it said. 

Miyazaki also wrote that he solemnly accepts the fact that the Philippines is presenting the honorable award to him.

The award’s foundation has praised Miyazaki’s films for tackling complex issues such as environmental protection and the protection of women’s rights through his work, and for trying to teach children these complicated issues.