JPEPA Batch 17 Concludes Preparatory Japanese Language Training
May 22, 2025
The 17th Preparatory Japanese-Language Training for Filipino Nurse and Care Worker Candidates under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) officially concluded with a virtual Closing Ceremony held on May 22, 2025. Two hundred and eighteen candidates, comprising nineteen (19) nurse candidates and one hundred ninety-nine (199) certified care worker candidates, successfully completed the six-month Japanese-language training program.
The virtual ceremony began with the singing of the National Anthems of the Philippines and Japan, followed by an opening remark from Mr. SUZUKI Ben, Director of The Japan Foundation, Manila. In his speech, Mr. Suzuki reflected on the continued strength of the JPEPA program and praised the candidates for their dedication and perseverance. He acknowledged the candidates’ determination, especially in overcoming various challenges and difficulties throughout the course. He commended their unwavering effort and commitment to learning, noting that such resilience reflects the strength of character essential for their future roles in Japan. He also extended his gratitude to all partner organizations for their continued support and for successfully handling and facilitating the training.
Mr. Suzuki’s remarks were followed by messages from the Honorable Guests in attendance.
Ambassador ENDO Kazuya, the Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, extended his warm congratulations to the candidates for completing their six-month preparatory Japanese language training, commending their dedication to such a demanding journey. He reminded them that this is only the beginning, as they move forward to more intensive training in Japan and begin their roles in the healthcare sector. Stressing the importance of cultural understanding, he shared that “Japanese is a complex and beautiful language,” one that requires not just memorization but also cultural understanding and human interaction. He encouraged the candidates to persevere through challenges, assuring them that what once felt foreign will soon feel familiar, opening doors to more opportunities. He also expressed his deepest gratitude to all partner organizations and lecturers for their continuous support of the JPEPA program.
Mr. Levinson C. Alcantara, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), congratulated the candidates on the successful completion of their Japanese language training. His message underscored the profound significance of their achievement, not just as a personal milestone, but as a commitment to a greater calling of service in Japan. Mr. Alcantara also highlighted the inherent Filipino traits of skill, compassion, and resilience, which he believes make them the “best caregivers in the world.” He assured continuous support from the Department of Migrant Workers, encouraging them to embody professionalism and the distinctive Filipino service as they embark on their new journey in Japan.
Mr. KATAOKA Yoshikazu, Managing-Director of the Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services (JICWELS), congratulated the candidates for completing their training and thanked them for giving their best, despite the challenges of online and partial face-to-face learning. He shared how impressed he was with their dedication and perseverance, and conveyed his hope that they would soon experience Japan firsthand. He also expressed confidence in their compassionate and strong work ethic, and assured the candidates that JICWELS is committed to providing comprehensive support throughout their stay in Japan, from assisting with their transition and integration to offering continuous guidance as they embark on their careers. He closed his message with a hopeful note: “Inaasahan ko ang iyong tagumpay.”
Mr. Josef Carlo Orillo, EPA Head Lecturer of the Nihongo Center Foundation, congratulated the candidates and acknowledged their perseverance throughout the six-month training. He recognized the difficulties they faced, especially in remote learning, and praised their growth both in language proficiency and in personal discipline. He reminded them that they are not only future healthcare professionals, but also cultural ambassadors representing the Filipino spirit of care and commitment. He encouraged them to move forward with pride, purpose, and confidence as they begin the next phase of their journey in Japan.
After the congratulatory messages, it was followed by the Awarding of Certificate, led by Mr. SUZUKI Ben. 218 candidates were awarded in recognition of their hard work and successful completion of the training. A special award was also given for the first time － the Perfect Attendance Award, honoring the 13 candidates who showed exceptional commitment and unwavering discipline by maintaining full attendance throughout the course.
As chosen candidate representatives, Ms. Reinarose N. Guina and Ms. Wenna Mae B. Vallejo took the opportunity to deliver inspiring messages on behalf of their fellow candidates.
Ms. Reinarose N. Guina, representing the partial face-to-face candidates, and Ms. Wenna Mae B. Vallejo, representing the online candidates, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all organizations and individuals involved in their preparatory Japanese language training for their unwavering support throughout their intensive training.
They acknowledged the challenges they faced but highlighted their collective perseverance and dedication, which ultimately led to their successful completion of the program. They conveyed the candidates’ excitement and readiness to embark on their new journey in Japan, pledging to uphold the Filipino values of hard work and compassion as they contribute to the Japanese healthcare sector.
To close the ceremony, lecturers shared their own messages of congratulations, encouragement, and heartfelt goodbyes, expressing their confidence in the candidates’ readiness to face the next chapter of their journey.
The 218 candidates are slated to depart for Japan in June, where they will undergo another six-month intensive Nihongo training program prior to their deployment to their respective hospitals and caregiving facilities.
Recent Comments