The turnover ceremony, held on February 23, marks a significant milestone under JICA’s Programme for the Urgent Improvement of the Socioeconomic Infrastructures in the Bangsamoro Region. The two-story dormitory features six spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 96 trainees, offering a safe and supportive residential facility for learners coming from remote and underserved communities across the region.

Beyond the dormitory, JICA also handed over 153 units of training equipment to strengthen the RMDC’s capability to deliver 14 vocational courses aligned with the labor market needs of BARMM. The expanded capacity is expected to open more pathways to employment and entrepreneurship for the region’s youth.

The facility forms part of a JPY 1.8-billion (approximately PHP 700 million) grant package aimed at accelerating urgent socioeconomic infrastructure development in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao. Other components of the grant include the Farm-to-Market Road linking Barangay Romangaob in Upi and Barangay Ranao Pilayan in South Upi, turned over in October 2025, as well as the ongoing construction of the Provincial/City Manpower Development Center in Marawi City, with equipment procurement also underway for Marawi City and the Provincial Training Center in Basilan.

Collectively, these projects are designed to deliver tangible peace dividends by improving access to education, enhancing mobility, and expanding economic opportunities in formerly conflict-affected communities.

The ceremony was attended by Acting Senior Minister Abdullah M. Cusain, MBHTE Minister Mohagher M. Iqbal, Director General Ruby Andong, and First Secretary IMAMURA Makoto of the Embassy of Japan, together with representatives from partner organizations including the Japan International Cooperation System, Mohri Architect & Associates, INTEM Consulting, and the C.B. Garay Philwide Builders – 417 LP Construction Joint Venture.

In his remarks, JICA Chief Representative BABA Takashi underscored the dormitory’s deeper significance for its future occupants.

“For trainees coming from remote communities, this dormitory is more than a shelter — it is a safe and supportive space to study, grow, and build their future careers,” he said.

Acting Senior Minister Cusain acknowledged the project’s challenges, including pandemic-related disruptions and security concerns, and commended the collective perseverance that ensured its completion. Minister Iqbal, meanwhile, recalled the 2006 visit of former JICA President OGATA Sadako to Camp Darapanan, describing it as a pivotal moment that drew international attention to the Bangsamoro peace process.

“This inauguration symbolizes that peace is not merely discussed — it is built, so that the people of the Bangsamoro can tangibly enjoy the fruits of a hard-won peace,” Iqbal said.

JICA reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside its partners in Mindanao to advance lasting peace, strengthen human capital, and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation in BARMM.

In his remarks, Ambassador Endo noted that 2026 commemorates the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. He said the theme for the anniversary year, “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibility,” reflects the depth and resilience of the partnership built over seven decades.

Ambassador Endo emphasized the strong momentum in Philippines-Japan relations, citing a series of high-level engagements early in the year. These included the visit of Japan’s Foreign Minister, who met with key Philippine officials to discuss cooperation in trade, development, transportation, infrastructure, and foreign affairs, as well as the signing of a defense logistics agreement. He also mentioned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s attendance at the delivery ceremony of the world’s first methanol dual-fuel bulk carrier built in Cebu by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., and the recent visit of a delegation from Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party.

According to Ambassador Endo, these developments demonstrate the strategic importance of the Philippines and ASEAN to Japan and underscore the growing strength of bilateral ties amid an uncertain global environment.

He highlighted PHILJEC’s long-standing role in deepening economic relations between the two countries, describing the committee as a vital link that connects governments, industries, and people. Through continuous dialogue and practical cooperation, PHILJEC has helped reinforce the economic foundation of the broader Japan-Philippines partnership.

Ambassador Endo expressed his appreciation for PHILJEC’s contributions and voiced optimism that the upcoming joint meeting in Manila will further strengthen cooperation. He concluded by encouraging stakeholders to continue weaving the future together and to build a partnership anchored on trust, shared prosperity, and long-term collaboration.

Nais ko sa inyo ang isang napakasaya at masaganang Bagong Taon. Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang PHILJEC. Mabuhay ang pagkakaibigan ng Japan at Pilipinas!

The turnover ceremony was attended by Ms. Yurie Mukaigawa, Second Secretary and Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Officer of the Embassy of Japan, along with Rizal Governor Nina Ricci Ynares, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Planning Officer Virginia S. Rabino, Barangay Sto. Domingo Chairperson Janice Pacsagon-Curia, and Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Inc. (TWHI) officers led by President Felix Gonzales and Chief Operating Officer Angelita Evangelista.

The project, approved in 2024 under Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) through the GGP, provided funds for 10 new equipment sets essential to TWHI’s livelihood and skills training programs.

Established in 1973, Tahanang Walang Hagdanan has empowered nearly 300 persons with disabilities through sustainable livelihood initiatives such as wheelchair and educational material production. However, after decades of use, outdated machinery had reduced productivity and limited income opportunities for many beneficiaries.

Through Japan’s assistance, the upgraded equipment will help improve the working environment and restore economic independence for PWDs and their families.

In her remarks, Ms. Mukaigawa underscored the spirit of partnership and compassion behind the initiative, saying, “This support is not just about providing machines. It reflects Japan’s sincere commitment to improving lives and creating better opportunities for persons with disabilities. Our collaboration with Tahanang Walang Hagdanan is a testament to what we can achieve together—with shared purpose and compassion.”

As the top ODA donor in the Philippines, Japan launched the GGP program in 1989 to uplift grassroots communities and promote inclusive human security. To date, 567 GGP projects have been implemented nationwide — a reflection of Japan’s steadfast dedication to reducing poverty, fostering empowerment, and strengthening the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines.