Philippine Ambassador Joins Japan-Led Meeting on Addressing Loneliness and Isolation
Hon. MIHARA Junko (7th from left), Philippine Ambassador Mylene J. Garcia-Albano (10th from left), and other members of the diplomatic corps at the Meeting with Ambassadors on the Issue of Loneliness and Isolation held on 26 June 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.
(Photo Credit: Office for the Advancement of Measures to Address Loneliness and Isolation, Cabinet Office, Government of Japan)
10 July 2025 – Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano participated in the “Meeting with Ambassadors on the Issue on Loneliness and Isolation” hosted by the Government of Japan on 26 June 2025. The meeting was held under the auspices of the offices of Hon. MIHARA Junko, Minister for Loneliness and Isolation, and Hon. MIYAJI Takuma, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. It brought together ambassadors and representatives from 11 countries and regions to share national experiences and strategies to address the pressing issue.
The meeting highlighted how loneliness and social isolation, which became more visible and severe during the COVID-19 pandemic, continue to pose major challenges in many countries around the world. These issues can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and require coordinated, inclusive solutions.
During the exchange of views, Ambassador Garcia-Albano highlighted the Philippines’ perspective on the transnational dimension of loneliness and isolation, shaped by its longstanding labor migration history, which often results in prolonged separation of families and emotional strain on both overseas Filipinos and those left behind. She also noted emerging patterns associated with urbanization and solo living, as well as disparities in the experience of loneliness between rural and urban communities.The Ambassador conveyed the Philippines’ interest in further strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation on promoting the well-being of migrant communities in Japan.
“The Philippine experience continues to teach us that mental and social health must be approached not only through clinical and technological means, but also through culture, community, and compassion. Looking ahead, we see potential for cooperation between Japan and the Philippines, and among countries in the region, particularly in supporting migrant communities within the framework of fostering more inclusive and connected societies,” Ambassador Garcia-Albano concluded.
