Many reintegrated Overseas Filipino Workers turned teachers through the ‘Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir’ (SPIMS) program share stories of hope, perseverance, faith, and gratitude.
“Because of SPIMS, sacrifices and capabilities of OFW-teachers were recognized, doors were opened for us to return and serve, lives transformed not only of myself but of many other returning OFWs, “Dianne M. Caser, Teacher II, of Oya-oy Elementary School in Bacnotan, La Union, said.
The Balik Turo: A Hero’s Journey Home is part of the Bayanihan para sa Balikbayang Manggagawa National Reintegration Network Regional Fair, held on April 21, 2026, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines Region I (NEAP RI).
For 13 years, Caser worked as a teacher in Thailand due to better compensation, a more balanced work-life, and a comfortable life.
“No matter how fulfilling life overseas is, nothing beats the warmth of being with the family, the comfort of speaking your language, and the deep belongingness our homeland can provide,” Caser said.
Caser also shares, “Teaching here is an emotional commitment that no salary can equal, a unique joy in seeing your students succeed, and while the world may need Filipino teachers, it is the Philippines that needs us most.”
Ramil N. Bumatay’s path was equally winding. He left teaching to work as a housekeeper, timekeeper, and eventually a kindergarten teacher in a private school in the United Arab Emirates. The challenges were many, but the pull to return was stronger.
“I faced so many sacrifices working abroad,” he recalled. “But coming home became truly rewarding when SPIMS gave me the chance to practice my real profession again.”
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴
Gillian Rose G. Gurtiza was working in the civil engineering field and worked as a document controller in a private company in Dubai. Yet her heart had always belonged to teaching. When the opportunity came, she left her work, returned home, and applied for the SPIMS Program.
The transition brought new challenges and responsibilities, but it also brought fulfillment. Now a permanent Teacher I at Pagudpud Integrated School in Ilocos Norte, Gurtiza is actively involved in school programs and activities, living the dream she once set aside.
Meanwhile, Richard T. Laureta is an education graduate and licensed teacher, but his first work was as a factory worker in Cavite and then in Taiwan for 13 years.
Taking a step of faith toward a new beginning, upon return in 2023, he applied for SPIMS and underwent the process of a refresher course and application as a permanent teacher.
Finally, in June 2025, Laureta was appointed as a Teacher I at San Joaquin Integrated School in Balungao, Pangasinan.
“From factory worker to educator, dreams may be late, but they are never behind if you trust and persevere,” Laureta said, “For everyone still waiting, struggling, or dreaming, your journey may not be easy, and your timeline may be different. But God is still working. Keep persevering.”
Caser in her message said, “Reintegration is not just coming home; it is rediscovering your purpose, restoring connections, and recreating your place in the nation. It is not the end but the beginning of life.”
Through SPIMS, Teachers Diana, Ramil, Gillian Rose, and Richard have provided them and the other beneficiaries a pathway back home for professional growth and stability.
By: Joanna Diaz-Sabado, ORD-Public Affairs Unit