The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and key Philippine and Japanese stakeholders met to identify and address current Nihongo (Japanese language) training and examination challenges for workers.

In a news release Thursday, DMW Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan said the first-ever “Consultation Meeting on the Japanese Language Training Course” held on May 22 focused on collaborative efforts to equip Filipino workers with the necessary language skills to excel in the Japanese workplace.

“This meeting served as a valuable platform for open dialogue. By collaborating with all stakeholders, we can ensure Filipino workers receive the best possible Japanese language training, ultimately boosting their competitiveness for jobs in Japan,” Caunan said.

Representatives from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Philippine recruitment agencies taking part in the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) and Specified Skilled Worker Program (SSWP), and language training centers nationwide actively participated in the consultations.

The Japanese Embassy in Manila, represented by First Secretary and Labor Attaché Chihiro Kanno, and the Japan Foundation Manila also joined the consultation–dialogues.

“This marks a promising step towards a more streamlined and practical pathway for Filipino workers in Japan with stakeholders working more closely to ensure Filipino talent has the necessary language skills and knowledge to succeed in the Japanese workforce,” Caunan added. (PNA)