Why ESL is Thriving in the Philippines like Magic!

THE SOURCE

Perhaps one of the best things the Philippines inherited from the American colonizers is the implementation of English in our education system. In fact, unlike the Spanish language which was curtailed in the program, English has even become the second official language in the country. 

We used it in legislation, a medium in both private and public schools, local and national media platforms. In business and advertising, road signs, hotels, and even the restrooms. As they said, we became the 3rd largest speakers of English in Asia.

THE EXPOSURE

Then many people have noticed Filipinos respond quickly in English when a foreigner asks for help somewhere on the street. Aren’t we so charming, yet very shy?

We don’t like to admit it, but we love interacting with other people in English. We are familiar with tons of Hollywood films, patronized international celebrities. And various news from the West that we try to imitate and draw inspiration from. One reason we can understand the different accents of English.

In our elementary school, teachers trained us to write a variety of essays in English. Many writing exercises take place from college to university. And memorized different tongue twisters! It was a fun language exercise that we used to do every morning!

THE RESULT

English is widely used and understood in the Philippines. Although not the same way native English speakers do, still a listener can understand. Accents don’t matter as long as you’re getting your message across.

We have also recognized our fluency in English when hundreds of outsourcing companies draw on the country’s exceptional talent. We have become the major source of labor in Asia for our neutral accent and lower labor and infrastructure costs.

Skill in the English language is also one of the country’s strengths that has helped drive the economy. Even made the Philippines the top voice outsourcing destination in the world, surpassing India in 2012. The influx of foreign learners of English is also on the rise due to the more affordable but quality English as a Second Language (ESL) programs being offered locally. (Source: British Council Philippines)

Also, local tax subsidies await foreign investors, as they benefit the national economy in return. It has created enormous employment opportunities, improved infrastructure, and improved the standard of living of ordinary Filipino citizens.

Modern Filipino parents have recognized the importance of learning English on both personal and professional levels. So they encouraged their young children to use the language at an early age and even sent them to some private schools or teachers.

Fluency and accuracy are part of our study as we attend school every day. Work in a call center or teach other non-native speakers who may want to learn the English language as well.

Filipinos’ ability to provide flexibility and accountability to a company they have worked for makes them ideal candidates for teaching positions. As most of our clients are from neighboring countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and Vietnam, we take advantage of the little time zones difference. 

PERSPECTIVE

Although there are popular opinions that you can only learn English more effectively if you are in a country where most native speakers live. This is true under certain circumstances, but it largely depends on the learner’s adaptability to the people and culture of a new place where they can integrate language learning.

A student’s language level also plays an important role in choosing where to study. A Korean student admitted that she learned better English in the Philippines compared to when she was in the US because she could not adapt to a new culture. She also realized that she was losing some of her weight because she wasn’t used to eating unhealthy large fries and burgers.

When she arrived in the Philippines, she was amazed by the number of restaurants offering fresh seafood and unique Asian dishes at affordable prices. She made friends with Filipino teachers and met other students from her home country that made her feel comfortable and at home.

“Claiming to be the world’s third-largest English-speaking country, after the US and the UK, the Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) is heavily tapping into the ELT market and building the country’s niche as the place-to-go for ESL learning. As shown in one of their 2017 press releases promoting Philippine ESL and its fine beaches to the Koreans, the DOT proudly claims that “ESL training is more fun in the PHL” (DOT, 2017).

Foreign students can study English in the country while having the best of both worlds. The proximity to other Asian countries and adaptability to culture and people make learning more beneficial and fun. The Philippines is very famous for its tropical getaways with white sand beaches in Boracay, Palawan, or Pearl Farm in Davao. Majestic landscapes such as the Rice Terraces in Banaue, Asik-Asik Falls in Cotabato, and the world-famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol.

Experience the thrilling adventure of Kawasan Canyoneering activity that gives you the best of Cebu’s adventure. Jumping high cliffs, swimming in icy turquoise waters, and enjoying the different festivals of locals.

Most of the ESL centers already offer these itineraries to their enrollees. An effective national government strategy to promote ESL while reviving the country's tourism industry.

THE CHALLENGE

It may seem simple, but teaching takes patience and passion to be a good influence on your students, especially when teaching students from all over the world. Different cultures and expectations are crucial to an understanding before taking on the task of teaching the language.

And as the English language evolves, a good teacher takes their time to keep improving the profession to stay relevant. It is our challenge for Filipino teachers to remain competitive and on par with native English teachers.

Beginner to, pre-intermediate, intermediate to upper-intermediate, advanced to proficient, these are the different English language levels offered by ESL in the Philippines. 

It is worth noting that companies employing Filipino ESL teachers have provided free ongoing training in English grammar and standard pronunciation. Provide skill assessment and training for IELTS, TOEIC, TESOL, and TOEFL instructions. These are useful for improving teachers’ skills and abilities.

PROVEN STRUCTURE

Foreign students would invite their teachers to go camping or to the beach because of the flourishing friendships developed among them and also acted as local guides. It is a great way to keep practicing English outside of the four corners of the classroom.

Some exceptional teachers are being sent to teach in Japan and South Korea to run their clients’ schools. Merise has provided all Filipino teachers across all their Japanese campuses! Very Proud.

“The Philippines can compete with the US, UK, or Australia as an ideal destination for studying the English language,” said Ruth Tizon, ESL program director. “Aside from its large English-speaking population, competent schools and faculty, the Philippines has a rich cultural heritage, offers diverse tourist attractions and activities, and warmth and hospitality not found anywhere else in the world.”

EFFECT OF THE PANDEMIC

With the onslaught of Covid-19, like other industries that have sadly been affected by their operation, the ESL industry is no exception. Face-to-face learning instructions with a teacher and student stopped abruptly. Hundreds of students have gone to their home countries, so many ESL schools have been forced to shut down.

Still, most foreign students continue their classes through online courses. A testament that teachers and students have continued to work together to adapt and flourish due to the linguistic importance of English.

SIDENOTE :

Simply put, the Philippine ESL Industry, thrives in the country thanks to the positive feedback from students of different nationalities. Filipino teachers can slow down, depending on the language level of the student and the teacher who often smiles. More friendly indeed!

And If you are a learner of any language, you are fantastic!

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Image Credit: Pexel /Google 

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