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Being able to communicate in English effectively is one of the most important skills in the world of business today. This is why many countries where English is not spoken natively are always looking for ESL(English as a Second Language) teachers who can teach the language to their students.
If you have dreams of working abroad, becoming an ESL teacher is one of the best ways to achieve that dream, especially if you take the time to earn your TESOL certification. Filipinos are noted for having exceptional English skills compared to most other Asians, which is why other countries tend to hire Filipino teachers. This begs the question, though: which are the best countries for Filipinos to teach English?
Japan
First on our list is The Land of the Rising Sun. Japan offers a wealth of opportunities to international English teachers worldwide and Filipino ESL teachers are in high demand here. Some of the best places to teach are at: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. Apply through the famous Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme to get the best chance of being employed as a Filipino English teacher in Japan. Every year, the JET Programme recruits around two thousand aspiring JET participants to work in Japan as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) who give language instruction to students of various educational levels and other community-building opportunities.
Other options to get hired are through direct hiring or employment agencies. You may also check out LinkedIn’s listing of jobs for TESOL certification holders and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines to stay updated about these opportunities.
Average monthly salary: From US$1,700
United Arab Emirates
Another popular destination to teach English abroad is in the UAE. While this country may not be at the top of mind for this job, the UAE offers a higher than average compensation. Take note that stringent requirements are needed before being hired, but it’ll be worth the effort once you get in. Having some teaching experience or teaching credential may give you a better shot at landing the job. Some employers even offer additional benefits such as reimbursed airfare and free accomodation. There is also an expansive Filipino expat community in the UAE which makes settling in easier.
Best cities to teach in are Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Average monthly salary: From US$ 3,000
Thailand
Thailand is gaining popularity as a destination for international English teachers. Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are the best places to teach. With a low cost of living, higher than average pay, and a relatively similar climate as the Philippines, Thailand offers a good opportunity for Filipino English teachers.
With Thailand’s English for All Program, Filipinos can find more teaching opportunities since both the Philippine and Thai government have provided better support for the teachers and facilitated a smoother employment process.
Average monthly salary: From US$ 1,000
Spain
With sunny weather, good work-life balance, and a language close to Tagalog, Spain is a popular choice for Filipinos who want to teach English in Europe. Best cities to teach in are Barcelona and Madrid. While the pay is lower than average, working in Spain as an English teacher is only around 12-25 hours a week which offers you ample time to engage in the country’s bustling culture and to earn extra by teaching private English classes. Enjoy the colorful fiestas, tapas, and local music scene while chilling with the locals over the weekends.
Consider applying through the Language and Cultural Assistant Auxiliary Program which is a programme by The Spanish Ministry of Education that targets Filipinos. You will need a TESOL Certification or equivalent to teach English in Spain, but prior teaching experience is not required. If you get in, you can live in Spain as a teaching assistant with benefits such as a monthly stipend, training, and paid holidays.
Average monthly salary: From US$ 700
Of course, there are many other countries not mentioned here, but this list can be your starting point. To get the best chance at becoming an international Filipino ESL teacher, consider taking TESOL classes at a reputable language school like The Study by Enderun Colleges.