Delegates from three partnering institutions: UP Open University, Japan Foundation, Manila, and the Kamenori Foundation
The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), Japan Foundation Manila (JFM), and the Kamenori Foundation sealed their partnership with a ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on 06 August 2025 at the UPOU Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna.
The three-way partnership centers on implementing the Japanese Speakers’ Forum (JSF) 2025, an annual event where students and teachers showcase their Japanese language learning and connect with peers through hands-on activities and fieldwork. It features programs for both teachers and students to promote continuous learning and growth. The partnership aims to equip high school students with competencies promoted by the program, while also empowering teachers across ASEAN through high-quality training to boost Japanese language skills, intercultural competence, and professional growth while building a strong regional network.
The principal signatories of the MoA included Dr. Joane V. Serrano, UPOU Chancellor; Dr. Aurora V. Lacaste, UPOU Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA); Ms. Hiroko Nishida, Executive Director of Kamenori Foundation; Mr. Tsutomu “Ben” Suzuki, Director, JFM; Ms. Yuiko Shigematsu, Assistant Director, JFM; and Ms. Kelly Kathlene Ko, Program Officer, JFM.
From left: Ms. Kelly Kathlene Ko, Program Officer, JPM; Ms. Hiroko Nishida, Executive Director of Kamenori Foundation; Dr. Joane V. Serrano, UPOU Chancellor; Mr. Tsutomu “Ben” Suzuki, Director, JFM; Dr. Aurora V. Lacaste, UPOU Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA); and Ms. Yuiko Shigematsu, Assistant Director, JFM.
UPOU FMDS Asst. Professor and PDA for Linkages Remsce Pasahol provided an overview of the three institutions.
UPOU Chancellor Serrano gave her welcome remarks, expressing gratitude to the partners, attendees from JFM, and to the colleagues for facilitating the signing program. She emphasized that UPOU is honored to be part of this collaborative program and affirmed their commitment to work with partners in nurturing globally aware and socially responsible learners and educators. She also noted that this collaboration is not just about signing, but about the shared values and commitment. She expressed hope that the project will open more doors to benefit the students and the communities they aim to serve.
JFM Director Suzuki emphasized that UPOU has become one of their most valued partners in the Philippines. He underscored that the mission of the Japanese Speakers’ Forum (JSF) is ongoing, focused on human resource development, and sustainability — one of the world’s most pressing concerns. He reiterated their shared mission and expressed deep gratitude for the continued cooperation in fulfilling the project’s goals.
Mr. Tsutomu “Ben” Suzuki, Director, JFM giving his remarks
In her speech, Kamenori Foundation Executive Director Nishia noted that their current initiatives are focused on sustainability. She mentioned that, in coordination with Director Suzuki, they identified the UP Open University (UPOU) as a valuable partner in these efforts. Reflecting on her visit to UPOU in May 2025, she expressed confidence in the success of the event and her eagerness to strengthen collaboration with the university.
Delegates from JFM also shared their remarks on the partnership, emphasizing how important the platform is of UPOU, and the importance of enjoying the process of this project. Tokens of gratitude were awarded to JFM and Kamenori Foundation as a sign of appreciation.
Delegates from JFM share their remarks on the partnership.
Written by Marinela Hernandez | Edited by Primo Garcia and Anna Cañas | Photos by Anthea Peredo
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