SILANG, CAVITE – The local government of Silang is launching a Japanese Language program for its residents who want to learn the language.

According to the Office of Mayor Alston Kevin Anarna, they will conduct a Japanese Language Orientation on Friday, January 19, 2024 at the Function Hall of the New Municipal Hall, at 9 a.m.

The program is open to residents aged 20 to 35 years old, and who have finished high school or are completers of the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

For interested residents, they only need to bring the original and photocopy of the following documents:

• PSA Birth Certificate
• Marriage Certificate (if married)
• High school or college diploma, Transcript of Records, or ALS certificate
• Barangay Clearance
• 1×1 picture, 3 pieces (white background)
• Caregiving Certificate of Training

Aside from additional knowledge, the local government believes that the program will bring more opportunities inside and outside the country.

The mayor said the Japanese Language program is part of their initiative to provide skills training and livelihood assistance to their constituents.

He added that learning Japanese will open doors for employment and business opportunities in Japan, which is one of the Philippines’ major trading partners and sources of foreign investments.

The Japanese Language program will run for six months, with classes held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The program will be facilitated by certified Japanese language instructors from the Japan Foundation, Manila.

The local government aims to produce at least 100 Japanese language learners who can pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) by the end of the program.

The JLPT is the official test that measures and certifies the Japanese language ability of non-native speakers.

The local government also said that they will coordinate with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to assist the graduates of the program in finding jobs or scholarships in Japan.

The mayor encouraged the residents of Silang to take advantage of the Japanese Language program and to register as soon as possible, as slots are limited.

He said that the registration will start on Monday, January 15, 2024, and will end on Thursday, January 18, 2024.

The registration forms are available at the mayor’s office, the municipal hall, and the barangay halls.

The mayor also thanked the Japan Foundation, Manila, the POEA, and the JICA for their support and partnership in the Japanese Language program.

He said that the program is a testament to the strong friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.

He expressed his hope that the program will not only enhance the language skills of the residents, but also foster cultural understanding and appreciation between the two countries.