By : Shaine Pe
The Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), led by Chairperson Atty. Marites A. Barrios-Taran, together with Full-Time Commissioner for Programs and Projects Dr. Carmelita C. Abdurahman, welcomed officials and representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) during a courtesy visit held on 18 May 2026 to discuss potential areas of cooperation on language-related programs and initiatives.The meeting centered on the presentation of KWF’s mandates, functions, and ongoing programs. Both parties engaged in meaningful discussions aimed at identifying strategic areas for collaboration and mutual support in advancing language development and cultural initiatives.
Among the key topics discussed was the strengthening of projects under the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK), which operates across various regions in the country. The dialogue highlighted opportunities for partnership that could contribute to the promotion of language, culture, and community development.As a gesture of goodwill and cultural exchange, Chairperson Barrios-Taran presented copies of publications from the KWF’s Aklat ng Bayan series to the visiting delegation.The delegation was composed of representatives from various sectors committed to fostering stronger Philippines–Japan relations.
Among those present were JICA representatives Mr. Ueno Yoshiyuki, Mr. Takenaka Narufumi, Mr. Kessy Reyes, Mr. Jewel Regnim, Ms. Jewel Regnim, and Ms. Annika Fernando. Also in attendance were Ms. Salve Romano Pasco from the Partnerships for Health, Agriculture, Nation-Building, and Socio-economic Upliftment, Inc. (PNBI), and Ms. Ma. Dionne Cruz from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–MIMAROPA.
This initiative is expected to open new opportunities not only for language development but also for broader cultural and socio-economic cooperation through the support and participation of both local and international stakeholders.Through partnerships such as these, KWF continues to strengthen its commitment to promoting, preserving, and developing the Filipino language while fostering meaningful international collaborations that contribute to national development.###
