On November 4, 2025, the 18th Preparatory Japanese-Language Training for the Filipino Candidates Nurses and Certified Care Workers under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) program began with the opening ceremony held online. 

Delivering the opening remarks, Mr. Ben Suzuki, the Director of Japan Foundation Manila, welcomed 225 nurse and caregiver candidates expressing gratitude for their choice to work in Japan. He acknowledged the challenges of the six-month online training, particularly for those affected by the current typhoon, but voiced his deep trust in the resilience of the Filipino people. Beyond professional skills, he encouraged candidates to act as cultural catalysts and bridges between the two nations. Mr. Suzuki also thanked the various Philippine and Japanese agencies supporting the program and wished the candidates success in their journey.

Mr. Suzuki’s remark was followed by messages from the Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya; Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers, Atty. Hans Leo J. Cacdac; Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services’s Managing Director, Kataoka Yoshikazu; and Nihongo Center Foundation President, Mr. Philip B. Sanvictores.

In his speech, Ambassador Endo Kazuya welcomed the 18th Batch of candidates, describing them as “living bridges” that represent the enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines. He emphasized that while Japanese healthcare demand is rising due to increased life expectancy, the mastery of the Japanese language is vital for candidates to build trust with patients and navigate a new culture. Acknowledging the worldwide reputation of Filipino healthcare workers for their competence and compassion, the Ambassador encouraged the candidates to dedicate themselves to their six-month training, reminding them that “nothing is impossible with hard work”.

Atty. Hans Leo J. Cacdac recognized the collective achievements of the JPEPA partnership. He shared that since the first batch in 2009,  there are now a total of 4,033 candidates under the JPEPA program covering the period 2009 – 2025, marking a milestone that the program has reached so far. Atty. Cacdac further added that the JPEPA program is not only a pathway for employment but also an opportunity for professional development and cultural exchange. He reminded the candidates that the road ahead may not always be clear, but assured them that through determination, it will illuminate the way. Cacdac also emphasized that the program is designed to make the candidates more resilient, skilled, and compassionate professionals, which are the qualities that reflect the best of Filipino values.

Kataoka Yoshikazu, Managing Director and Board Director of JICWELS, extended his congratulations to the 18th batch for successfully matching with their chosen hospitals and care facilities in Japan. He expressed gratitude to the candidates for their perseverance and commitment to serve abroad. Mr. Kataoka noted that learning Nihonho is an essential step toward achieving success in their work environment, as it allows them to understand not only instructions but also the emotions and needs of their patients. He assured the candidates that they would be fully supported by their teachers and mentors throughout their studies, encouraging them to help and inspire one another as they advance together towards a common goal.

Mr. Philip B. Sanvictores, President of the Nihongo Center Foundation, addressed the 18th Batch of candidates by noting that their completion of the intensive six-month training in May 2026 coincides with the 70th Anniversary of Philippines-Japan Diplomatic Relations. He framed the JPEPA program as a living expression of the “Fukuda Doctrine,” which emphasizes “Heart-to-Heart” relations and mutual prosperity. Mr. Sanvictores urged the candidates to view themselves as ambassadors of the Filipino spirit, representing the nation through professionalism, diligence, and kindness. He emphasized that while the fully funded program provides a strong linguistic and cultural foundation, the candidates must commit to continuous learning through daily interactions in Japan. Ultimately, he expressed gratitude to the Japanese and Philippine governments for their unwavering support and encouraged the candidates to take pride in their path of service.

Ms. Malou Jane Donael Atipen, the representative of the candidates, shared her gratitude on behalf of her fellow candidates for being part of JPEPA Batch 18 at the Japanese language training ceremony. She recounted her own journey where she discovered the EPA program through social media. Ms. Atipen further added that her interest in anime, manga, and Japanese culture further driven her to pursue this path. She quoted that “Language is not just a tool, it’s a bridge that connects us to the hearts and lives of those we serve.” She encouraged her co-candidates to stay patient, consistent and supportive of one another. 

The 18th JPEPA batch has a total of 225 candidates — comprised of 207 care workers and 18 nurses — who, after undergoing six months of the intensive preparatory program of the Japanese language and culture in the Philippines, will then go through another six months of training in Japan upon their arrival, before they are dispatched to their designated hospitals and caregiving facilities where they will be able to apply their gained knowledge to carry out their duties not only as healthcare workers but also as representatives of Filipinos in Japan.