THE Marikina government, in partnership with Sakai Town, Japan and Onodera User Run, launched a six-month Nihonggo training program yesterday 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 Marjorie Ann “Maan” Teodoro said.
She said that the Onodera User Run facility in Marikina is already open, and invites fresh graduates to join the program.
Teodoro explained that 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.
She added that the local government is also committed to sustain the program over the long term.
Teodoro also said that the program is designed not only 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,” the mayor said. “We’ve already seen this work. PLMar has produced educators who are now successfully working and living in Japan through similar initiatives.”
The mayor said that the local government will ensure safe recruitment for job seekers 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 explained.
The mayor also thanked Marikina’s sister city, Sakai, for playing a key role in making the initiative possible.
