Manila, Jan. 29 -- The Japanese Embassy in Manila attributed to the "unprecedented levels" of visa applications among Filipinos the shortage of appointment slots in securing a Japanese visa, especially for the upcoming spring season.

"Visa applications from Filipinos to visit Japan have increased to unprecedented levels, excluding the level during the [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic period," it said in a statement sent to the Philippine News Agency Wednesday night.

"In response to the increasing demand, the visa processing system underwent a fundamental overhaul starting April 2025 to maintain proper screening quality and streamline the process," it added.

Data from the embassy showed that short-stay visas issued to Philippine pass...