Japan offers free travel for Filipino youth in exchange program
By Sally A. Altea
LEGAZPI CITY, Albay --- Filipino students and young professionals are given a great opportunity for a sponsored trip to Japan and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the country.
The Japanese government offers various scholarship and youth exchange programs to facilitate this experience.

Yuri Mukaigawa, an officer at the Japan Information and Culture Center, stated that the Japanese government provides full scholarships and youth exchange programs aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding and strengthening diplomatic ties.
“Each year, the Ministry of Education in Japan selects around 100 Filipino students to study in Japan through these full scholarships,” she said.
Mukaigawa recently visited the Bicol region for the “Hello Japan” program, an interactive event designed to introduce Japanese culture, traditions, and government programs to Filipino youth.
Japan exchange program
One significant opportunity offered through this initiative is the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) program.
This key initiative, developed by the Japanese government, aims to strengthen friendships and diplomatic relations among the youth of Japan and Southeast Asia.
The program provides Filipino youth with a unique opportunity to visit Japan and participate in a 10-day cultural exchange.
During this period, participants engage in various cultural activities, site visits, and workshops that focus on topics fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and society.
The program is open to high school and college students, as well as young professionals, depending on the theme of the exchange.
The Japanese government covers the international travel expenses for all selected participants.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Youth Commission (NYC) invites Filipino youth to participate in the JENESYS program and other international learning opportunities.
Nydia Delfin, the NYC officer for Bicol, urged young leaders from the region to take advantage of these opportunities.
“I encourage our youth to apply for these programs, especially those related to scholarships and further education in Japan,” she said. “We often have representatives from the Bicol region, so keep trying. You never know; you might be selected.”
Learning experience
Benito Lot Jr. Reyes, a JENESYS alumnus from Naga City, shared how his experience in Japan opened doors to new opportunities and broadened his horizons.
Reyes was part of the second batch of 36 Filipino students selected for the program in 2013, which gathered 360 young leaders from across the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ member states.
“It was my first international trip, and it was truly unforgettable. The local immersions, making new friends, and gaining new perspectives motivated me to contribute positively to my community,” Reyes said.
He mentioned that he initially applied through the NYC Facebook page, making the experience even more surprising and memorable.
“In addition to the local immersions and making new friends, I also gained valuable insights and inspiration that encouraged me to make a difference in my community,” he added.
Through several programs, including the JENESYS, the Japanese government is not only providing Filipino youth with the opportunity to explore Japan.
It is also helping young Filipinos to broaden their experiences and deepen their understanding of one of Asia’s most influential cultures.
Visit this site for further information: https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/11_000001_00241.html (PIA5/Albay)
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