Aiming to help students and fresh graduates gain the skills needed to work in Japan, the local government unit (LGU) of Marikina City, in partnership with Sakai Town, Japan and Onodera User Run, launched a six-month Nihonggo training program on Monday at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMAR).

“These learning centers that offer free language training can open better and bigger opportunities for our students,” Marikina City Mayor Maan Teodoro said.

The event was attended by Sakai Mayor Masahiro Hashimoto, who reaffirmed the Japanese city’s commitment to deepen its friendship with Marikina through education and cooperation.

“We will make more efforts in developing and promoting Japanese education [in Marikina],” said Mayor Hashimoto.

“The Onodera User Run facility here in Marikina is already open, and we are inviting people, especially fresh graduates, to join us.”

She said the in-person classes are tailored not just for general communication, but for real-world industries like caregiving, hotel accommodation, and food service, which are fields where language skills are crucial for overseas employment.

Teodoro said the launch of the free program removes a critical barrier for Filipinos aiming to work in Japan.

“It is significant because it removes a major barrier?accessibility. Language is often the biggest hurdle for Filipinos hoping to work in Japan. By offering this for free, we are democratizing opportunity. This is also a symbol of our continuing partnership with Sakai Town and Japan, showing how people-to-people cooperation creates real value for communities,” she said.

Beyond the current batch of enrollees, she said the local government is committed to sustaining the program over the long term.

She also noted how the program is designed not just to help job seekers meet Japan’s basic language requirements, but to prepare them for long-term integration and success abroad.

“Language is not just a requirement?it’s a gateway to integration, career success, and daily life in Japan,” she said.

“What makes this program exciting is that we are expanding beyond educators. This time, we are preparing Marikenos for other key sectors such as hospitality, caregiving, and service, where Marikina has long been a proud source of quality talent?locally and globally,” she went on.

“Most importantly, we ensure safe recruitment by partnering with a trusted and reputable organization like Onodera User Run Ltd., which provides end-to-end support, from training to job placement and even daily life assistance in Japan.”

Teodoro also thanked their sister city Sakai for playing a key role in making the initiative possible. Marikina City Press Release