Japan readies Pinoy nurses, care workers for preparatory language-training sessions

THE opening ceremony of the Preparatory Japaneselanguage Training for the 13th batch of Filipino nursing and care-work candidates bound for Japan was held virtually early last month.

This initial six months of Japanese language training prior to the candidates’ departure for Japan was implemented via joint efforts of the governments of Japan and the Philippines. Due to the current pandemic, classes will be held online. For the duration of their halfyear of training, the candidates were provided with computer tablets and Internet-access funds, in addition to their daily allowance.

The 227 nurse and care-worker candidates are expected to leave for Japan this year and will undergo another six months of Japanese language training there prior to their work term in hospitals and care facilities.

The learning session is being conducted under the Economic Partnership Agreement between Japan and the Philippines. Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa represented the Embassy of Japan and shared inspirational words to the candidates.

Administrator Bernard P. Olalia of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration graced the ceremony and gave a message to all the attendees. Also in attendance were Director Jocelyn O. Hapal of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Suzuki Ben of the Japan Foundation-manila, Philip B. Sanvictores of Nihongo Center Foundation Inc. and Ishikawa Tetsuya of PAD Foundation Inc.