The local government unit of Marikina City, in partnership with Sakai Town, Japan, and Onodera User Run, launched a six-month Nihongo training program on Monday, July 14, 2025, 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,” said Marikina City Mayor Marjorie Ann “Maan” Teodoro.

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

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

She 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 added.

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

“The city is committed to providing facilities, utilities, and local support to ensure this program’s continuity. We are also working closely with PLMar and the private sector to integrate this into our broader workforce development agenda. Our goal is to make this a permanent pathway, not just a one-time initiative.”

She also noted that 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.

“By providing early, localized, and free access to Japanese language training, we’re removing one of the biggest barriers for our people and empowering them to take the first step with confidence. We’ve already seen this work—PLMar has produced educators who are now successfully working and living in Japan through similar initiatives.”

“What makes this program exciting is that we are expanding beyond educators. This time, we are preparing Marikeños 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.”

“I truly believe this will increase the number of skilled and job-ready individuals from Marikina pursuing opportunities in Japan, and more importantly, serve as a working model for other local governments across the Philippines.”

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

“We humbly look to this sisterhood in Sakai, not only as a source of inspiration, but also as a possible partner in bringing some of these dreams to life… Let us work on projects that benefit our people – from cultural exchanges to sustainable development,” she 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.