Japanese students explore Oro’s social welfare with Klarex

JAPANESE exchange students from Soka University’s Global Citizenship Program visited Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy of Cagayan de Oro City on Friday. 

Their visit aimed to conduct a research study focusing on the support provided by the local government for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), solid waste management, and social services. 

The students, who arrived in the city last Monday, are part of a delegation including their mentors, Kanzaka Izumi and Kentaro Shimada.

Throughout their stay, the students engaged in meaningful discussions with local stakeholders, conducted interviews with PWDs, and observed the city’s initiatives aimed at improving welfare, waste management, and social services. 

These activities are essential components of their research study, which seeks to understand how the local government supports these critical areas.

Guided by Dr. Leonard Lachica, a Guidance Counselor from Capitol University, the students also visited the City Central School. 

This institution is recognized for providing specialized services to children with disabilities, offering the students a comprehensive view of the support systems in place for PWDs in Cagayan de Oro.

Sheila Lumbatan, the Chief of Staff at the City Mayor’s Office, highlighted the long-standing partnership between the Soka University Global Citizenship Program and Capitol University. 

This collaboration, which has lasted between 12 and 14 years, has been pivotal in facilitating cultural exchanges and educational initiatives that benefit both Japan and the Philippines.

During their meeting with Mayor Uy, the importance of cross-cultural engagement and knowledge exchange was emphasized. 

Lumbatan pointed out that international cooperation plays a critical role in addressing social challenges, especially in empowering and including PWDs in local communities.

The insights and experiences gained by the Japanese students during their visit are expected to contribute significantly to the efforts aimed at enhancing support systems for PWDs in Cagayan de Oro. 

Lumbatan acknowledges the visit as evidence of the impact of collaboration in promoting positive change and creating a more inclusive society for people of all abilities and backgrounds.