What inspired you to work for ITTI Philippines?
It has been my dream as a teacher to mold people with the skills necessary in imparting knowledge to youngsters who will be the future leaders of the world. Also, the vision of ITTI has moved me to my core in realizing my dream.
An ocean view at Manjuyod.
How long have you lived in the Philippines, and what is your favorite part of living there?
I have been living in the Philippines for 24 years now. I have never migrated or moved ever since. It's a home where my soul always goes back to no matter how many times it wanders to diverse and even more beautiful places. More than anything else, I always find myself craving for the social warmth, the free-spirited and welcoming vibe of Filipinos, my fellow countrymen, who embrace visitors in for a hug with smiles in their faces like no other. There is no place like home, indeed.
What advice do you have for first-time travelers to the Philippines? What should they pack?
Given that the Philippines is a tropical country, I would advise them to definitely include sunscreen in their list. As for the first-timers, it won't hurt to research about our country just to have a glimpse of what life is like here.
What advice do you have for new participants?
Allow yourself to be inspired not only to learn but also (and most importantly) to enjoy every moment of it. I make a point of sharing this quote whenever I can that I’ve held close to my heart by Ayn Rand: "If you don't know, the thing to do is not to get scared, but to learn."
What is something every participant should know about ITTI Philippines?
The people behind ITTI Philippines are experienced teachers and trainers in an ESL industry for at least 15 years. They have wide experience in terms of TESOL training and sending teachers abroad.
The team
How does ITTI Philippines support its participants?
ITTI Philippines supports participants in everything from assisting them in finding accommodation to giving resume and interview coaching, and lesson planning for demo application. We also give regular updates, forward any job vacancies to our graduates, and give them work abroad orientation including information on what documents to prepare.
What are your hopes for the future of ITTI Philippines?
We hope to stay in the business industry for many years to help Filipinos find work.
Describe a typical day at work.
It is always a motivating day for me to work and spend it with people who are equally eager to improve themselves to be efficient language teachers. In addition, doing this job is always fulfilling when knowing that it is a job well done.
ITTI goes to Singapore
Why do you do what you do?
As I have mentioned in the first question, it is my dream and my passion to teach. It is also a great opportunity to learn further in my craft while sharing with others what I know. This job is also helping me realize how I can grow as a teacher. Thus, I am more motivated to do what I do.
What is your favorite part of your job?
The best thing about being a trainer is seeing my trainees realize their lapses when teaching and learn how to improve them. It is also satisfying to see the trainees apply what you have taught them during activities and demos.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel for me is connecting with new souls and nature, as well as finding a home in every place that I have been and the people I meet, and it is digging deeper into my psyche, challenging and enriching it to achieve peace of mind and love.
