When I first visited Japan, as a tourist, I explored some of its island provinces (about eight prefectures) and briefly experienced a mix of traditional and contemporary culture. Even though I’ve visited numerous Japanese islands in the past, it wasn’t until this recent trip as a student that I realized what makes Japan the progressive nation it is today.
As a student at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Tokyo, I was able to interact directly with the Japanese workforce and people. The education system of GRIPS in Tokyo is comparable to U.P. Diliman’s NCPAG.
How can the Philippines attain Japan’s status? While it may not be possible for the Philippines to replicate Japan’s unique circumstances in their entirety, there are a number of lessons and strategies that can be applied to promote progress and development.
In terms of technology and innovation, Japan is without question a global leader. The nation’s research and development sector is robust, fostering advancements in disciplines ranging from electronics to robotics. Japanese businesses invest heavily in innovation, ensuring their competitiveness in the global market. One of our Japanese professors conceded, however, that their mobile phone manufacturing is lagging behind. Indeed, majority of the mobile phones I saw were iPhones.
The Japanese have an extraordinary work ethic that contributes to their high levels of productivity and efficient work practices. The Japanese culture emphasizes discipline, perseverance, and commitment.
Political stability and low crime rates are hallmarks of Japan’s stability and security. You need not worry about pickpockets even if you are in the middle of the famous Shibuya traffic “scramble.”
Japan has an outstanding infrastructure, which includes efficient public transportation, modern cities, and cutting-edge technology. For the Philippines to literally and figuratively “move on,” an efficient transportation system should be the government’s top priority. Japan’s economy is one of the top three greatest in the world. It exports automobiles, electronics, and other products of superior quality.
I believe that social cohesion is Japan’s greatest asset, not only for the reasons that I have mentioned, but also for a multitude of others. In Japanese culture, social harmony and cooperation are highly valued. This sense of unity contributes to a peaceful and orderly society, fostering an atmosphere in which individuals can focus on their individual and collective growth. The Japanese people are exceptionally considerate, hardworking, and helpful.
Like many tourists, Japan has become one of my most favorite countries in the world because of its kind and disciplined inhabitants. (INSITES by Joji Codilla)
