Blog

In 2025, the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) worked closely with Japan’s Kagawa Prefecture to improve job recruitment for Filipino workers. The focus is on faster and clearer hiring under programs like the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) and Specified Skilled Worker (SSW). These programs mainly support industries with labor shortages, such as caregiving and construction.

Japan and the Philippines also approved new partnerships between Japanese recruitment firms and government-accredited Philippine agencies. These partnerships help protect OFWs and support Japanese employers looking for skilled workers.

Through the Japan–Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA), Japan continues to accept Filipino nurses and care workers. More slots are now available, with added Japanese language training and work support.

Japan has also extended the allowed stay for Filipino healthcare workers under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). This gives OFWs more time to pass national exams and build long-term careers in Japan.

Japan plans to accept more foreign workers under the SSW program and a new Training and Employment Program starting in 2027. By 2029, over 1.23 million foreign workers could be employed in Japan. This shows strong long-term demand for Filipino workers across many industries.

The Philippine Embassy in Japan is working with Japanese lawyers to improve legal help for OFWs. This ensures workers can get support if they face contract or workplace problems.