Japan wants to strengthen volunteer ties with Philippines

The Japanese government is looking to strengthen its volunteer relations with the Philippines through its Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) program.

The Embassy of Japan in Manila said the program allows Japanese nationals to live in their host communities for up to two years, immersing themselves in local life while working alongside local communities and helping in addressing a variety of issues at the grassroots level.

“Through JOCVs, Japan’s diverse human talents are well utilized for a wide range of support including agriculture, education, primary health, and social welfare,” Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya said in a press release issued Friday.

“Even with its remarkable growth, the program has still kept to its objectives: making a difference in communities, while promoting mutual understanding and international goodwill,” he added.

The Japanese envoy underscored the success of the program in the Philippines, wherein more than 1,700 JOCVs have been deployed since 1965 and have been engaged in various grassroots initiatives.

“With future deployments focusing on human resource development, industry growth, and disaster risk reduction, we can expect to share more stories and triumphs together,” the Ambassador said.

The objective of the program are to assist these Japanese volunteers to contribute their skills, knowledge, and experience to the process of socio-economic development in developing countries.

This will also enhance the friendly relations between Japan and other nations. — BAP, GMA Integrated News