A delegation of Japanese lawmakers visited the Philippines from August 26 to 29, 2025, to observe and strengthen community-based environmental and rural development initiatives supported by the Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement International (OISCA).
The delegation, composed of House of Representatives members Koichi Tani, Shinji Inoue, and Takakazu Seto, is all part of the Association of Japanese Diet Members Supporting OISCA.
On August 27, the group traveled to the OISCA Abra Agro-Forestry and Industrial Training Center in Dolores, Abra, where they met with local stakeholders and witnessed the impact of agro-forestry initiatives on community livelihoods. The lawmakers also joined schoolchildren participating in the Children’s Forest Program, planting trees and taking part in environmental education activities.
The following day, they visited a community forest activity site, before making courtesy calls on Abra Governor Eustaquio “Takit” P. Bersamin and Ilocos Sur Vice Governor Ryan Luis V. Singson. On August 29, the delegation capped their visit with a meeting with Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla in Manila.
Founded in Japan, OISCA International has long partnered with Philippine communities to advance capacity building, rural development, and environmental restoration, with support from the Japanese government. Its flagship programs, such as the Children’s Forest Program and sericulture projects, have helped integrate youth participation, community empowerment, and sustainable agriculture into local development efforts.
The visit of the Japanese lawmakers underscored Japan’s continuing support for grassroots initiatives in the Philippines, highlighting how environmental cooperation and people-to-people exchange remain a vital pillar of bilateral relations.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News
