UP TO 350,000 jobs in 14 industries in Japan may soon be available to aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), according to Labor Attaché to Tokyo Marie Rose Escalada.
She said Japan needs 60,000 careworkers, 53,000 food service workers, 40,000 construction workers, 37,000 building cleaning management staff and 34,000 workers in food and beverage manufacturing.
Other sectors that need skilled workers are machine parts and tooling, industrial machinery, electric, electronic, and information, construction, shipbuilding and ship machinery, automobile repair and maintenance, aviation, accommodation, agriculture, fishery and aquaculture.
"As of now, the numbers are still far from being met. It will take about two years before (these are) filled up," said Escalada.
The labor official, however, stressed that the job vacancies are open to all nationals.
"This is not just for Filipinos. They will allow special skilled workers in Japan. Even if they are not professionals, if they have good background from the 14 industries, they'll be allowed,” she said.
The basic qualifications include those at least 18 years old, has passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test and Skills Test, or has completed the Technical Intern Training.
Under the memorandum of cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, the salary for the skilled workers should be equal to or more than the amount that a Japanese national would receive. (HDT / SunStar Philippines)