SIXTEEN Filipinos were named recipients of a Tokyo-funded scholarship program that allowed them to pursue their Master’s degree with Japan’s top institutions.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency said that the scholars were granted an opportunity to study in Japan under its two Knowledge Co-Creation Program scholarship schemes.

Nine officials from the National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Finance and Department of Public Works and Highways were recipients of the KCCP Long-Term: SDGs Global Leader Program.

On the other hand, six officials from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, DPWH, Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Municipal Government of Mambusao, Capiz received three KCCP Group and Region Focus Degree Programs.

A professor from Central Luzon State University was the recipient of the Agri-net scholarship, one of JICA’s long-term programs.

“Amidst the global and local challenges we all face, JICA is confident that all of you will use the knowledge and experience from Japan to lead and inspire your fellow Filipinos through your stellar performance upon your return to public service,” JICA Philippines Chief Representative Sakamoto Takema said.

The KCCP is a form of technical cooperation composed of training and scholarships that aims to share Japan’s long history of development, as well as vast knowledge and expertise to partner countries such as the Philippines in order to foster human resource development towards socio-economic growth.

The KCCP is also an information and experience-sharing platform that fosters dialogue and collaboration among Japanese universities and institutions.