Former AKB48 Member Sayaka Akimoto, Proud to be Half-Filipino

Former AKB48 member Sayaka Akimoto just released her 1st photobook called "Ari no mama". In the book, she revealed about her inferiority complex of having a Filipina mother and a Japanese father.

And I quote:

I kept thinking 'What am I?' for 7 and a half years while I was spending time together with all these other idols like Mayuyu and Yuko. But I am able to stay active and have work because of my shoulder width that's bigger than anyone else's in AKB, and my muscles. I cherished these traits as these define who I really am.

Now I am proud when I say that I'm half-Filipino, and I hope that I can give give a helping hand to everyone else who are half-bred and is in the same situation as I was, and people who have no confidence.

[Source: Maji De!?]

Former AKB48 Member Sayaka Akimoto Visits the Philippines

After 10 years, former AKB48 member Sayaka Akimoto returns to the Philippines for a photoshoot while at the same time, have a little mini vacation of some sorts.

For those who are not aware, Sayaka is half-Filipina thanks to her mom. Her mom also went with her in this trip wherein they went to the beach, Sayaka finally eating Jollibee Spaghetti after 10 years and eat her mom's favorite food, rambutan!

And yes, we look forward to that new photobook. In other Sayaka Akimoto related news, the Detective Conan drama series will air on Philippine cable via HERO TV. She played the role of Sonoko Suzuki in the series, Ran's best friend.

Special thanks to Imnikky for the translation of her blog original blog entry.

Sakaya Akimoto to Graduate from AKB48

AKB48 member Sayaka Akimoto announced on her official blog that she will graduate from the group and will not participate in the upcoming Senbatsu General Elections.

Today is the deadline for the submission of candidacy in this year's Senbatsu General Elections when she made this announcement. Akimoto has been a member of the group for 8 years now, and the reason for her graduation is to gain more experience outside AKB48 in order to pursue her dream as an actress.

Akimoto previously appeared in dramas such as Majisuka Gakuen. Last year, she is part of the cast of Ultraman Saga as Anna. The date of her graduation was not revealed in the blog entry. From all of us here, we wish you good luck for your future endeavors.

Source: tokyohive