The Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir (SPIMS) program is a pioneering reintegration initiative designed for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). This collaboration among the Department of Migrant Workers, National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO), Department of Education (DepEd), and Philippine Normal University (PNU) aims to address the country’s teacher shortage by offering OFW-LET passers employment opportunities in public schools. By facilitating the transition of OFWs back into the local workforce as educators, it leverages the skills and experiences gained abroad for the betterment of the Philippine education system.
Beneficiaries who are specifically OFW-LET passers with or without teaching experience, stand to gain several advantages. These include not only employment in public schools but also support through an Online Refresher Course provided by PNU, teaching kits, and financial aid for school materials. It underscores the government’s commitment to reducing outmigration and enhancing local community development through education. With more than 500 OFW teachers already reintegrated, it has proven its importance in boosting the economy, improving the quality of education, and enriching the lives of returning OFWs and their communities. If you’re an OFW with a passion for teaching and meet the eligibility criteria, this initiative offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the nation’s future while pursuing a fulfilling career in education.
What is the SPIMS Program?
SPIMS is a reintegration program, a collaborative effort between DMW, OWWA, DOLE, and the Department of Education. It targets OFW-LET (Licensure Examination for Teachers) passers, offering them a pathway to employment in public schools as teachers.
Purpose
The Sa Pinas Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir program tackles the Philippines’ teacher shortage and empowers returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) by facilitating their reintegration as educators. With over 500 OFW teachers already reintegrated, it bridges the gap in the education system while bringing valuable skills and foreign income back to the country. Backed by government collaboration and funding, it not only reduces outmigration but also fosters community development by allowing returning teachers to contribute their expertise locally. Overall, the initiative strengthens the education, the economy, and the lives of OFWs.
Legal Basis
The program operates under the legal frameworks established by OWWA and DOLE, adhering to Philippine employment and reintegration laws for OFWs.
Benefits
Qualified OFWs are entitled to several benefits under SPIMS, including:
- Employment opportunities in public schools.
- An Online Refresher Course provided by PNU.
- Teaching kits, a laptop or tablet, and P20,000 worth of school materials upon assignment.
Eligibility/Qualifications
To be eligible, applicants must be:
- Filipino citizens with a valid passport.
- OFW-LET passers with at least 1 year of teaching experience within the last 5 years, or without teaching experience.
- OFWs who have not stayed in the Philippines for over 3 years from the application date.
Requirements
Prospective applicants must prepare:
- A completed application form available at NRCO.
- Passport or a valid ID with a copy of the passport showing arrival and departure stamps.
- PRC ID and Certificate of Board Rating.
- Proof of overseas employment.
- Teaching employment certificates, if available.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Benefit from SPIMS
Online Application: Complete the form at the official NRCO link and submit the necessary documents via email.
OWWA Office Application: Visit the nearest OWWA Regional Office to submit your documents.
Email Application: Download the form from the provided link, attach the required documents, and email them to the specified addresses.
SPIMS Program Online Refresher Course
For those who have been out of the teaching profession for over five years or have no experience at all, the Online Refresher Course by PNU is mandatory. It refreshes essential teaching skills and pedagogical knowledge.
Success Stories / Recent Updates:
Awarding of Financial Assistance to SPIMS Beneficiaries in Legazpi City, Albay
The SPIMS, in collaboration with NCRO-DOLE, OWWA, and DepEd, has provided financial assistance to OFW teachers who aspire to teach in the Philippines again. This initiative, known as Balik-Turo, aims to support and empower returning teachers through the provision of teaching kits.
The Department of Migrant Workers, in partnership with the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO), DepEd, and PNU, has launched the “Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir” initiative. This initiative offers employment reintegration opportunities for overseas Filipino workers who have passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), enabling them to secure teaching positions in public schools across the Philippines.
In a heartwarming video showcased at the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cabinet Cluster (HDPRC) presentation, Elsie Balute Villardo, a beneficiary of the Sa Pinas Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir Program, shared her remarkable journey. DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, as the chair of the HDPRC, highlighted the cluster’s achievements during the PRE-SONA forum held at Waterfront, Cebu City.
Video: OWWA XI SPIMS Beneficiary Testimony Jeaniefer Mabandos from Davao del Sur
Former OFW Jeaniefer O. Mabandos, who worked as a glass installer/welder in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, faced a setback when his company went bankrupt. However, he used his time in the Philippines to earn education units and pursue his dream of becoming a professional teacher. With the help of the ‘Sa Pinas Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir’ program of OWWA-NRCO, Mabandos not only received a teaching kit worth PhP20,000.00 but also secured a plantilla item as Teacher 1 in a public school in Digos, City Davao del Sur. Through this, Mabandos was able to reach his dream and expressed his gratitude to OWWA-NRCO for this incredible opportunity.
Conclusion
The SPIMS represents a strategic opportunity for OFWs with a passion for teaching to contribute to the Philippine educational sector. It’s not just about filling vacancies; it’s a chance for OFWs to bring home global experiences and insights, enriching the learning environment for Filipino students. If you fit the eligibility criteria and are interested in applying, ensure you gather all the necessary documents and follow the application steps outlined.
It’s a chance to make a meaningful transition from working abroad to serving the nation’s future generations. Remember, as part of this initiative, you’re not just finding a job but you also impact lives and shape futures of the nation.