MANILA – The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, together with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) hosted the Philippines-Japan Friendship Week, dedicating the occasion to honor the “invaluable contributions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Japan” and to the “further strengthening” of the bond between the two nations.
A program was held at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City last July 30, 2024 with the theme “Engaging the Stakeholders with a Sense of Commitment and Genuine Partnership,” which was attended by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines ENDO Kazuya and DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, who shared their respective messages to the attendees.
In his speech, Ambassador Endo expressed his “deep appreciation to the DMW for their unwavering support.”
Endo also underscored the recent establishment of the Japan Desk at the DMW, and thanked all private and government agencies involved in the deployment of OFWs to Japan, highlighting their role as “everyday ambassadors of Filipino values.”
The Japan Employment Facilitation Desk or known as Japan Desk was officially launched on November 22, 2023 in Osaka, Japan and was called “the first of its kind in the history of the Philippines’ Overseas Employment Program.”
According to the DMW, the Japan Desk aims to “monitor deployment and return of migrant workers in Japan; enforces and facilitates compliance with the specially-prescribed timeframes for actions on Japanese documents, processes and concerns; serves as the focal unit for Japan concerns, and recommends rewards and incentives for Japanese principals and employers, Japan-registered vessels and licensed PRAs and manning agencies.”
Guests were treated to vibrant performances by Ms. Sharlla Cerilles, Pastel Mix, and the Far Eastern University Dance Troupe. Adding to the festivities is a culinary experience highlighted by the rich flavors of both Japanese and Filipino cuisines, the Embassy of Japan shared.
Throughout the event, attendees also enjoyed a special floral arrangement exhibit presented by the Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Manila.
During the second day of celebrations on Wednesday, testimonies and OFW stories of dedication, perseverance, and resilience in Japan are featured, as well as seminars on culture and language, “Kamustahan with Filipino Workers in Japan”, and fun and games for OFWs, the Embassy revealed.
To cap off the celebration, a dedicated jobs fair offering employment opportunities in Japan will be held at Robinson’s Galleria Ortigas on August 1, 2024.
