In a significant move to support returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has rolled out the ‘Sa ‘Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir’ (SPIMS) program, benefiting 33 former Ilonggo OFWs who have passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) and joined the public school system. The initiative, aimed at reintegrating OFW teachers into the Philippine education system, was highlighted during a ceremony at Casa Real on Wednesday, where each beneficiary received PHP20,000 to aid with work-related expenses.
The event, a collaboration between DMW and the Public Employment Services Office (PESO) of Iloilo province, was attended by key figures including DMW Western Visayas Director Glenda Aligonza and Provincial Administrator Raul Banias. Dr. Cynthia Dario, officer-in-charge at PESO, emphasized that the assistance is a recognition of the sacrifices made by these former OFWs who chose to return home and contribute to their communities.
Dario praised the patriotism of these individuals, noting that despite the comforts and benefits of working abroad, they opted to return to Iloilo to make a difference in local education. The former OFWs have been prioritized for permanent positions as Master Teacher I within the Department of Education, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting their transition and service to the Ilonggo students.