Wanted: Nurses, care workers to Japan

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has started accepting applications for nurses and care workers interested in working in Japan under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement.

In a televised interview on 1 March, Atty. Rosemary Duquez, director of the DMW’s Pre-Employment and Government Placement Bureau, announced that the government plans to deploy 50 registered nurses and 300 care workers as part of its annual deployment program.

“This is an ongoing initiative under our agreement with Japan,” Duquez explained.

To qualify, nurses must possess a valid license from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and have at least three years of work experience in hospitals, clinics, or health centers.

Care worker applicants, on the other hand, must be nursing graduates or hold a four-year degree in another field, with a Technical Education And Skills Development Authority National Certificate II (NC2) in caregiving.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo six months of Japanese language training before deployment. Duquez clarified that the language training is free of charge and participants will receive an allowance.

“During the six-month online training, they will be provided with a daily allowance of around P785. Additionally, the government of Japan will provide P2,000 monthly for internet connection,” she said.

In May or June, Japanese officials will visit the Philippines to interview the shortlisted candidates.

Japan has been actively recruiting Filipino workers for years to help address labor shortages caused by its aging population. Interested applicants can submit their applications until 4 April.