On 1 June 2023, an online ceremony was held for the completion of the Preparatory Japanese Language Training (PJLT) in the Philippines for the 15th batch of Filipino candidates for nurse and certified careworkers bound for Japan under the Economic Partnership Agreement between Japan and the Philippines (JPEPA).

First Secretary and Labor Attaché KANNO Chihiro from the Embassy of Japan and Undersecretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac from the Department of Migrant Workers delivered their inspiring words for the candidates.

Messages were also shared by Mr. SUZUKI Ben of the Japan Foundation Manila, Mr. Philip B. Sanvictores of the Nihongo Center Foundation Inc., Mr. KATAOKA Yoshikazu of the Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services, Ms. Karen Melody Gonesto Kumazawa representing the candidates, and a compiled video presentation of messages from the lecturers.

The Japan Foundation Manila and the Nihongo Center Foundation Inc. conducted the training online, and onsite for a select few towards the training’s latter duration. All 231 candidates received daily living and internet allowances, and computer tablets were provided on loan.

Upon arrival in Japan, another 6 months of Japanese language training await the candidates prior to the work term in Japanese hospitals and caregiving facilities.