THE Embassy of Japan in the Philippines is now accepting applications for the Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) and Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) positions for the 2026 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme.
Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. In celebration of this commemorative year, the embassy invites all Filipino JET Programme aspirants eager to begin a new journey in Japan to submit their applications.
The JET Programme was introduced in 1987 to help deepen mutual understanding between the people of Japan and those of other countries through foreign language exchange and cultural immersion at the local level.
Since the 2025 recruitment cycle, the embassy has accepted applications for both positions. CIRs work in local government offices in Japan focusing on international exchange, while ALTs are assigned to primary to secondary education institutions and local boards of education across Japan.
This year, more than 66 JET participants were sent from the Philippines, bringing the total number of Filipino participants to over 500.
Duties and eligibilities
CIRs are placed mainly in local governments across Japan. They assist in international exchange matters by translating documents; planning, designing and implementing projects; excellent in oral and written communication with non-Japanese residents and communities; and other related tasks.
Meanwhile, ALTs work in public or private schools or local boards of education in the prefecture or municipality of their assignment. Their primary task is to assist in classes led by Japanese teachers of English.
Applicants must be Filipino citizens and possess excellent oral and written English communication skills. They should be physically and mentally fit to work abroad and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, or be able to obtain such qualifications by the designated arrival date.
Additionally, CIR applicants must possess Japanese language proficiency (at least JLPT N2 or equivalent).
How to apply
GUIDELINES, application forms, and other requirements are available at https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000193_00001.html.
Submission deadlines are November 28, 2025 (Friday) for ALT applicants, and December 5, 2025 (Friday) for CIR applicants. Applications must be submitted via post or courier to THE JET PROGRAMME, Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City 1300.