This year's Ramon Magsaysay Award has been granted to Japanese animation master Miyazaki Hayao.

The award, known as "Asia's Nobel Prize," is annually given to individuals and organizations who have contributed to peace and development in Asia.

Miyazaki was named among this year's recipients in August. He was recognized for creating a number of highly-acclaimed animated films themed on peace and the environment.

Miyazaki skipped the awards ceremony on Saturday in Manila, the Philippines' capital, citing health issues. But he sent a letter which was read at the ceremony.

In his letter Miyazaki mentioned the battle in Manila at the end of World War Two between the now-defunct Imperial Japanese military and US forces that claimed the lives of around 100,000 civilians. He said the Japanese committed numerous atrocities during the war, killing many civilians. He added that the Japanese should not forget this fact.

He went on to say that with such a history in mind, he feels humbled to receive this honor from a Philippines-based foundation.