JAPAN-BOUND NURSES TOLD: BRACE FOR TOUGH 
TRAINING

USING the experience of the first batch as basis, the 
Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) 
advised the next batch of Filipino nurses and caregivers 
who will apply for jobs in Japan to brace themselves for a 
tough grind.

POEA administrator Jennifer Jardin-Manalili said the initial 
batch was made to undergo a rigid schedule of onsite 
language training, Monday through Saturday, during their 
six-month course. "Those who may have issues or 
reservations about not being able to take the course fully 
or without requesting for vacation during the period 
should think twice about pursuing their application," 
Manalili said.

The POEA is accepting applications for the second batch 
of Japan-bound nurses and caregivers until Jan. 15.

Manalili said physical and mental fitness are a must for 
applicants to enable them to cope with the demands of 
language training and cultural adaptation. She said 
members of the first batch started their on-the-job training 
in their respective hospitals and caregiving institutions in 
November 2009.

Last year, the POEA began recruiting 200 nurses and 300 
caregivers after signing a memorandum of understanding 
with the Japan International Corporation for Welfare 
Services (JICWEL) as part of the Japan-Philippines 
Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).

The MOU provided that those who will be chosen to work 
in Japan will have to undergo a six-month language and 
culture training to be paid for by their would-be employers.

The POEA said applicants for the second batch need to 
submit a detailed resume, one 2x2 picture, college diploma, 
transcript of records, employment certificates, valid 
passport, valid PRC ID, valid TESDA Certificate and valid 
NBI clearance. Manalili said those with complete 
documents will be given priority.

By Gerard Naval