18th batch of JPEPA Nurse and Certified Careworker Candidates complete pre-departure Japanese Language Training

On 21 May 2026, Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi attended the ceremony for the completion of the Preparatory Japanese Language Training (PJLT) in the Philippines of the 18th batch of Filipino nurse and certified careworker candidates bound for Japan under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA). 

Esteemed officials also in attendance and delivered messages were Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW); Mr. FUKUZAWA Yo of the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM); Mr. Philip B. Sanvictores of the Nihongo Center Foundation Inc. (NCF); and Mr. KATAOKA Yoshikazu of the Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services (JICWELS).  

In his remarks, Minister Yokota conveyed that the Japanese language proficiency the candidates have acquired will serve as a great asset in achieving success in their respective careers in Japan. He also encouraged the candidates to continue studying the Japanese language to further expand their future opportunities. 

A total of 212 candidates, consisting of 17 nurses and 195 careworkers, successfully completed six (6) months of Japanese language training while still in the Philippines through online classes conducted by the JFM and NCF. Upon arrival in Japan, the candidates will undergo an additional six (6) months of more intensive Japanese language training before beginning their assignments in hospitals and caregiving facilities across the country. 

Interested applicants may visit the Pre-Employment and Government Placement Bureau (PEGPB) webpage of the Department of Migrant Workers for future announcements: https://dmw.gov.ph/pegpb-services 

The year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. This batch of JPEPA pre-departure Japanese language training is recognized as one of the commemorative events celebrating 70 years of friendship between the two countries. More information about other events commemorating the 70th anniversary is available on the following webpage: https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/JPPH70.html.