Paglalayag: Successfully Connecting Filipino Migrants with Life in Japan

Online Orientation Highlights Cultural Understanding and Practical Support

The Sasakawa Peace Foundation, in collaboration with Kakehashi and Citizen’s Network for Global Activitiesii (INGA) and with the cooperation of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Japan, and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) successfully conducted Paglalayag, a comprehensive online orientation designed to help Filipino migrants navigate daily life in Japan. The virtual event, held on October 14, 2024, brought together experts and community leaders who shared valuable insights and practical guidance for adapting to Japanese society.

Event Highlights
Attu. Joan Paula Deveraturda of Kakehashi hosted the enriching session, which began with a warm welcome from Ms. Masako Iwashina of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation’s Social Innovation Program. The orientation featured several key presentations:

Cultural Integration: Mr. Takashi Ono from Maligaya House provided essential insights into Japanese cultural concepts, including reigi (decorum), wa (harmony), and social hierarchies, helping participants better understand their new environment.

Language and Daily Life: Ms. Mary Jean Noda, President of Masayang Tahanan Filipino Community in Kobe, shared practical language tips and resources, focusing on commonly used phrases and emergency vocabulary that are crucial for daily life.

Government Services and Support
Representatives from multiple government agencies provided comprehensive information about available services:

• The Philippine Embassy team, Mr. Thomas Philip C. Aquino and Ms. Mary Joy Ramirez, outlined consular services and community engagement opportunities
• Ms. Janet Ramos from the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) detailed their programs and services, including the Pre-departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). She highlighted how this Paglalayag orientation serves as a valuable complement to the PDOS, providing additional support for Filipinos in Japan
• Mr. Yuki Yamaguchi from the Immigration Services Agency shared valuable resources for foreign residents
  
  

Interactive Learning and Community Support
A highlight of the event was the break-out sessions, where Filipino community leaders from various regions across Japan served as facilitators. These experienced community leaders, who have deep understanding of both Filipino and Japanese cultures, guided meaningful discussions about daily life challenges and practical solutions. Their firsthand knowledge of specific regional differences and local resources proved invaluable for participants.

The sessions utilized the Kakehashi Handbook, “Bridging the Gap; A Young People’s Guide to Living in Japan,” as a framework for discussions. Participants benefited from the facilitators’ personal experiences and region-specific insights, receiving practical advice tailored to their local areas. These smaller group discussions allowed for more personal interaction and detailed answers to participants’ specific concerns about life in Japan.

Community Connections
Ms. Kazuki Hori from CINGA introduced participants to the network of 230+ consultation centers available for foreign residents, emphasizing the extensive support system accessible to Filipino migrants in Japan.

Impact and Outcomes

• The orientation succeeded in:
  Providing practical knowledge for navigating Japanese society
• Connecting participants with essential support networks
• Creating a platform for community building among Filipino migrants

This event demonstrates the ongoing commitment of various organizations to support Filipino migrants in Japan, ensuring they have the resources and knowledge needed for a smoother transition into Japanese society.

Available Resources
Participants received access to valuable materials including:

• Guidebook sa Pamumuhay at Pagtatrabaho- Para sa mga Dayuhang Namumuhay sa Japan” from the Immigration Services Agency
• Tulay na Magtatawid: Isang Gabay ng Kabataan sa Pamumuhay sa Japan from Kakehashi
• Orientation videos from the Immigration Services Agency
  
  

For those who missed the event and are interested in these resources or future orientations, please visit us at www.kekahashi-ph.jp or www.facebook.com/kakehashiphjp  or email event@cinga.or.jp.