On Sept. 5, the Philippine Alliance of Japan MEXT Scholars (Philajames), in partnership with the Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC), held a pre-departure orientation for the incoming 2026 MEXT scholars.

This year’s batch consists of 58 scholars specializing in Japanese Studies, Teacher Training, Research, and the Young Leaders’ Program (YLP). The orientation was also attended by a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) representative who will participate in the Japanese Language Program for Foreign Service Officers and Public Officials.

To open the program, JICC Director Matsuda Shigehiro welcomed this year’s batch of Filipino MEXT scholars with an inspiring message. Philajames members then shared their insights on the MEXT Scholarship Program while also introducing the activities of the Filipino MEXT alumni community.

MEXT alumni Jose Maria Lapira, Melanie Joy Gunio, Ryan Cedric Nacua, and Jadz Jevz Lee delved into their experiences preparing for their MEXT journey and international student life in Japan.

The Association of Filipino Students in Japan (AFSJ) also provided a brief background on their organization’s activities. 💬🌟

The Embassy of Japan would like to congratulate the Filipino MEXT scholars as they start their academic adventures in Japanese universities this coming autumn.

Want to know if you’re ready to take it to the MEXT level? Check out the following link for more information: https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000193.html. Japan Information and Culture Center