Iloilo Gets JICA Backing for Badminton Program

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo provincial government has secured support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency to bring in a Japanese badminton coach to train local athletes and coaches.

JICA representative Lara Javier confirmed the partnership during a recent courtesy visit to the province.

The initiative came from a proposal submitted by the Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office, which aims to strengthen grassroots sports development in the province.

“We will start processing the necessary requirements to formally open the slot to Japanese coaches who are willing to apply for the Philippine badminton training camp,” Javier said.

Under the agreement, JICA will cover the coach’s board and lodging for two years.

The coach will be assigned to Iloilo training centers and lead intensive badminton sessions for local players and mentors.

The project is part of a technical cooperation program between the Philippine government and JICA, supporting the province’s strategy to improve sports performance and build capacity through international collaboration.

JICA also confirmed that a Japanese football coach is expected to arrive in Iloilo by January 2026, further enhancing the province’s access to international sports expertise.