This appears to be the arrival of the C-54 transporting Japanese officers at Nicols Air field in Manila, Philippines and onward to MacArthur's Headquarters for surrender negotiations. This photo was taken shortly after 1:35pm on August 19th, 1945.

The American officer at the bottom of the stairs is likely Col. Leo H Dawson, the commander of Nicols field.

The leading Japanese officer wearing the gold braid is very likely to be Lieutenant-General Torashiro Kawabe.

They are about to be greeted at the bottom of the stairs by Col. Mashbir and General Charles Willoughby. Head translator and intelligence officer for General MacArthur.

I am guessing the person who took this photo was one of the few news photographers, or correspondents allowed to be present.

The newspaper article linked below has a very detailed description of the events leading up to, and after this photo was taken. The newsreel does not appear to be available free online.

• Source: United Newsreel Corporation, Catalog Number UNY 170. Produced 31-Aug-1945

• Chicago Sunday Tribune, August 19th 1945. Page 1 and 2