Julia Barretto is sizzling hot in Vivamax's latest drama-romance

By Tessa Mauricio-Arriola, Manila Times

Because she was only 10 years old when she set her dainty little feet on the rough yet sparkling road of show business, many still think of Julia Barretto as the pretty little girl who stole the screen from the alien "Kokey" in a 2017 ABS-CBN prime-time hit. She has since had a string of blockbuster movies that proved her acting mettle via stories of young love and family dramas. Nevertheless, it's still difficult for those who've seen her blossom into the compelling actress and outspoken woman she is today to believe that Julia is indeed 25 and way past 

Babies will always be babies to those who nurture and adore them, no matter how old they grow. And, in the same way, I guess beloved child stars will always be part of the baby generation Filipino families hold close to their hearts.

It wouldn't be far-fetched to think that Julia may be aware of this common quirk in many elders. So much so that it might even explain why Julia has sent Instagram into a frenzy these last few weeks, posting sexy swimsuit photos of herself from beach getaways that have gone viral, viral, viral.

It could well be Julia's way of preparing the public for the opening of her latest movie, "Expensive Candy," where she plays the role of a sex worker. For definitely, one look at the outcome of her stripper-clad photoshoot for the Vivamax movie will jolt sentimental folks to the reality that the pretty little niece of Gretchen and Claudine Barretto and promising daughter of actress-politician Marjorie is little no more.

Julia remains as pretty and promising as ever in her continued rise to the top of her game. She is also very determined too to keep growing in her craft. Practically giving her everything to the biz for the last 15 years, Julia certainly deserves to spread her wings wherever she decides. That is, even if it means surprisingly all and sundry by bearing skin and lots of it to effectively bring a character to life.

Steamy from the get-go, Expensive Candy is not at all about the raunchiness which many Vivamax titles have come to be known for.

According to the story's brainchild, blockbuster movie writer and director Jason Paul Laxamana, Expensive Candy is essentially a love story he can earnestly add to his acclaimed filmography. Direk JP, as everyone calls him, is the genius behind Viva's mega hits, "100 Tula Para Kay Stella," "The Day After Valentine's," and "Just a Stranger," to name a few.

In other words, substance can be expected of this daring movie, along with intense emotions as expertly delivered by Julia and her top-notch leading man.

Renato "Toto" Camaya (Carlo Aquino) is a high school teacher who falls in love at first sight with Candy after a night of paying to be with her.

Something about Candy leaves a mark in Toto's heart that he can't forget about. In trying to win her love, Toto spends time with Candy as much as possible, even if he has to pay for her time.

A humble man with a simple life, Toto's only dream is to be with Candy, and he is willing to do anything and give up everything for her. Sadly for the lovestruck teacher, Candy has different plans and definitely no intentions of having a stable relationship. Candy tells Toto she wants to make it big by doing something she's good at — getting attractive rich men to be with her, have them pay her loads of money, and live the luxurious life she has always desired.

Blushing ever so slightly as the bold and compelling trailer of Expensive Candy was shown at a digital media conference, Julia could not escape the question why she accepted such a daring role.

For the longest time, she would essay the role of a privileged and spoiled lady whose good heart prevails at the movie's end.

"Never akong makaka-no kay direk JP kahit ano pa yung ibigay niya o ipagawa sa akin," Julia, who had worked with direk JP in her fateful movie with boyfriend Gerald Anderson, "Between Maybes."

Besides her trust in the director, Julia added she was also drawn to the role because, "Number one, the story is really nice.

"Nung nabasa ko yung script, I immediately knew I wanted to do it, and I feel like I'm already at a point in my life where it's okay to get out of my comfort zone. So, yeah, I'm very excited to do this."

Laughingly she revealed that her mom Marjorie gave her the green light to crossover from her trademark roles into the daring world of Candy, knowing there is no turning back.

"Before doing the film, one Sunday lunch with the family, I told them about what was pitched to me. After a couple of months, noong dumating na sa akin 'yung script, pinabasa ko po 'yun ng buo sa mommy ko," Julia said.

"She really loves 'Between Maybes,' she loves direk JP, so she gave me the green light. Hindi lang management [Viva] ang nagbibigay ng green light, pati si Miss Marj nagbibigay din.

"My whole family is very supportive of it, and they really love direk JP, even Caloy, so they are very excited for this film."

Without a doubt, Candy is her most challenging role to date, evident from her preparations before filming began.

Besides taking sensual dance lessons, she found the most help by immersing herself in a real-life red light district.

"Unforgettable yung night namin ni direk sa Angeles City. We were able to visit what they also call the 'walking street' kung saan mismo kami nag-shoot."

To be able to talk to a sex worker, Julia narrated, "Tineybol ko siya. Naka-disguise po kasi kami nung una. Hindi po sure kung akala niya isa pa akong babae na interesado sa kanya at hindi niya alam kung anong gagawin ko sa kanya. Until later on, I had to introduce myself and kinailangan kong sabihin yung intention ko of being there. And nakasama rin namin siya sa shooting but I want to protect her identity so..." she trailed off.

"Tapos, naghanap po kami ng puwedeng reference ko for Candy, na ngayon, naging kaibigan ko rin. Marami pa sila and I did get a few tips and tricks and a little bit of their dance moves. The girls there are amazing."

Beyond prepping her to become Candy, Julia said that the immersion became all the more meaningful to her because of the new-found respect she has for sex workers.

"In understanding them, I understood Candy all the more. This movie really challenged me physically, mentally and emotionally. And I realized, si Candy kasi hindi naman siya about pagpapaseksi lang."

Expensive Candy also stars Denise Esteban, Quinn Carrillo, AJ Muhlach, Ivan Padilla, Bob Jbeili, Andre Yllana, Aica Veloso, Ashley Diaz, Aivy Rodriguez, Aurora Sevilla, Marissa Sanchez, Marnie Lapus, Jobelyn Manuel, Keagan De Jesus, Francis Maguindayao, Migo Valid, R-Ji, Mo, Valfer and Tomas.

Directed by Jason Paul Laxamana for Vivamax, the movie will also be shown nationwide in cinemas beginning September 14.

PH not producing enough salt – DA

WITH OR WITHOUT SALT A local salt maker continues to produce salt in some salt beds in Barangay Sta. Isabel, Kawit, Cavite on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022. The Department of Trade and Industry said there is enough supply of salt in the country. PHOTO BY DENNIS ABRINA

By Bella Cariaso, Manila Times

AN OFFICIAL of the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday admitted that the country is not producing enough salt, resulting in the importation of at least 93 percent of its requirement.

During the hearing of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, DA Undersecretary Kristine Evangelista said the country outsources most of the salt supply in the local market.

"As far as local production is concerned, admittedly we are not producing enough. The DTI is looking at the supply situation from a different perspective that they factored in importation, that is why they say we have enough but as far as DA is concerned, we must improve our production for us to meet our demand requirements," Evangelista said.

She added that salt makers stopped their operation when their business was affected by various issues, including the lower price of salt.

"We are looking into the production and yield of salt. This will also help our fisherfolks. This can also be another revenue for them. The BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) has a program to help our fisherfolk. I also requested a roadmap for our salt industry," Evangelista said.

"Aside from identifying areas for production, there will always be a need as far as technology is concerned for our marginalized fisherfolks and for them to improve their production level," she added.

Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. President Danilo Fausto earlier said local salt producers were adversely affected by the Republic Act 8172 or the "Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide" (ASIN).

Fausto said that the Department of Trade and Industry failed to comply with ASIN which mandates the agency to assist and support local salt manufacturers in upgrading their production technologies by helping them obtain soft loans and financial assistance for the procurement of iodization machines.

Kabayan party-list Rep. Ron Salo said he filed House Bill 1976 to revive the local salt industry.

PH imports 93% salt needs – Agri group

"We need to ensure comprehensive measures to uplift and revive the salt industry. Otherwise, we will see a completely dead salt industry," Salo said.

The country's yearly salt requirement is pegged at 600,000 metric tons.

In 2021, the country imported 647,000 metric tons of salt — 72 percent from Australia and 18.7 percent from China.

Davao City imposes strict curfew on minors

By Ruth Palo, Manila Times

DAVAO CITY: Col. Alberto Lupaz, chief of the Davao City Police Office, said the DCPO will intensify the implementation of curfew hours for minors in the city to ensure their safety and protection.

Lupaz has already directed all chiefs of police in the city to strictly impose the curfew which prohibits unescorted minors from loitering outside their houses between 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

The directive came after a 14-year-old female from Toril District was rescued by the police in General Santos City on Sunday afternoon, August 28, after she was initially reported missing on Saturday evening, August 27.

Lupaz said the police will "rescue" minors who are found to be loitering outside their homes in the city and will be turned over at the Women and Children Protection Desk of police stations for temporary custody.

He also advised parents to ensure that their children are inside their residences before 10 p.m.

Meanwhile, Lupaz dismissed reports of rampant kidnapping incidents despite the recent news that went viral on social media about two minors who were allegedly abducted in the city.

"It was fake news," Lupaz said.

The said minors personally appeared at Davao City Police Office on Monday afternoon, August 29, with their parents.

The minors and their parents denied the allegation of kidnapping, claiming that they ran away from home because of personal problems.

Turbulence injures PAL passengers, crew

By Benjamin L. Vergara

AT least 12 people were rushed to hospital on Sunday night after Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight PR113 encountered severe turbulence two hours before its arrival in Manila from Los Angeles.

PAL spokesman Cielo Villaluna confirmed that nine passengers and three crew members were injured.

Villaluna said that as of August 29, one passenger remained confined at the hospital.

She said that PAL shouldered the medical expenses of the affected passengers, most of whom were seniors.

Villaluna said that "upon arrival of the flight in Manila at 10:30 p.m. [on] August 28, the injured passengers and crew were brought immediately to the hospital by the Ninoy Aquino International Airport medical team, accompanied by PAL ground staff."

"This turbulence was not detectable on the aircraft's onboard weather radar station system, hence there was no advance warning. We affirm that safety is our top priority and that Philippine Airlines is fully cooperating with the concerned airport and aviation authorities," Villaluna said.

A passenger who posted his experience on Facebook said that the injured were not wearing seat belts when the incident happened.

The passenger identified as George Angel, also said, "[The] pilot did not even warn passengers of turbulence."

Turbulence can be caused by many different conditions — wind, storms, jet steam and objects near the plane, such as mountain ranges.

The best condition for us

By Fr. Roy Cimagala *

IN the gospel, there is a part where Christ went to the house of Peter and cured Peter’s wife, after which many others who were sick came to be healed by Christ. Even evil spirits that possessed a few came out of those they possessed. (cfr. Lk 4,38-44)

We have to understand that the best thing for us to do, especially when we are faced with all sorts of problems and difficulties, is to go to Christ. Being with Christ, asking for his help is actually the best condition for us to be in, even as we also would exhaust all possible human means we have to resolve our predicaments.

To be with Christ is always doable. All we have to do is to rev up our faith which tells us that Christ is always around, eager to help us and even willing to offer his life for us. It’s always a question of faith.

As Christ himself said, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Mt 17,20)

The faith of our Lady made possible the incarnation of the Son of God that led to our redemption. The faith of the apostles and all the other saints, despite their weaknesses, made them able to do what may be considered as impossible to do.

We should just learn how to deal with the difficult and the impossible things in our life with faith more than our human efforts alone. Let’s remember that as long as we are here on earth, we have to contend with all sorts of difficulties, trials and temptations. 

And as if these are not enough, we also have to contend with the truth of our faith that tells us that we are meant to pursue a supernatural goal that definitely cannot be achieved simply with our own human powers, no matter how excellent they are.

The secret is always to go and to be with God who can make the impossible possible. In all our affairs and situations in life, we should always go to God to ask for his help and guidance, and to trust his ways and his providence, even if the outcome of our prayers and petitions appears unanswered, if not, contradicted.

We should always remember that God never abandons us and is, in fact, all ready and prompt to come to our aid, albeit in ways that we may not realize, at first, just like what happened in that story of the two disciples on their way to Emmaus. (cfr. Lk 24,13-35)

We should not allow our feelings of sadness to be so dominant and pervasive that we shut off God’s many and often mysterious ways of helping us. If we do not pose a deliberate impediment to God’s ways, there is always hope. In our darkest moments, some light will always come piercing and dispelling the darkness away.

Everyday, we should find a way of how to be with God, fanning our desire to go to him always and sharpening our awareness of his constant presence and interventions in our life, etc.

We should strengthen our conviction that amid the varying situations in our life, the best condition for us to be in is to be with God.

* Chaplain Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE), Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

Support for the academe assured

For over two years of not having the traditional face-to-face learning modality, the Department of Education officially reopened its doors for students to physically engage in the four-corners of every classroom last August 22, 2022.

The full-swing of the face-to-face classes exposed urgent necessities in public schools, especially that classrooms are considered dormant since the outbreak of the pandemic. With this, the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro headed by Governor Dorothy Montejo Gonzaga assured to extend its support for the Department of Education in the province.

In the recent district teacher’s meeting conducted by DepEd New Bataan District, the Governor was represented by Executive Assistant Edward Macapili. In his talk, the executive assistant conveyed that the governor will support the educational institution towards providing education with an appropriate and a competitive standard. He also stressed that a conducive learning environment is vital on molding the minds of the younger generation, and this can be realized through working hand-in-hand with DepEd and the provincial government. The district meeting was attended by hundreds of public school teachers from New Bataan District, school principals and staff, and municipal officials of New Bataan.

Not only a good school curriculum can determine the efficacy and efficiency of teaching methods for students, but also the physical atmosphere where the delivery of the instruction will take place. This is where the support from the governor will go in, through the improvement and provision of school amenities in public schools.

During the conduct of the Brigada Eskwela prior to the reopening of classes, Governor Dorothy Gonzaga alongside with Congressman Ruwel Peter Gonzaga showed their dedicated support for the public schools  through provision of school buildings, school tables and chairs, and funds needed by the parents-and-teachers association and other matters that concern school improvement. The working governor and congressman visited several public schools and personally reached-out the communities to acknowledge their concerns. (JA, PAO-IPRD DdO)

‘Filipinas’ no more: DepEd adopts the use of ‘Pilipinas’ in schools

JOJO RINOZA / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN

by Merlina Hernando-Malipot, Manila Bulletin

Following the decision Commission on the Filipino Language or Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), the Department of Education (DepEd) directed public and private schools nationwide to stop using “Filipinas” in the teaching and learning process.

The DepEd Memorandum No. 74, s. 2022 signed by DepEd Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Epimaco Densing III dated Aug. 26 reaffirmed KWF’s decision to revoke Board of Commissioners Resolution No. 13-19.

Issued to bureau directors, directors of regions, superintendents of schools, and heads of public and private schools, the DM No. 74 s. of 2022 was DepEd’s response to the decision of KWF Chairman Arthur Casanova on the matter.

As per KWF’s decision, DepEd directed schools to bring back the use of “Pilipinas” in the teaching and learning process because the official name of the country is “Pilipinas” and not “Filipinas” as stated in the 1987 Constitution.

“Pilipino” should also be used when referring to the people and culture of the Philippines.

Despite this, DepEd said that there is no need to change the spelling — from “Filipinas” to “Pilipinas” — when it comes to printed materials such as books, Self-Learning Modules (SLMs), Weekly Home Learning Plans, Learning Activity Sheets, and other types before the release of the said memorandum.

“Iwasto na lamang ng mga guro at kawani habang ginagamit sa proseso ng pagtuturo (Teachers and personnel simply need to correct it while using it in the teaching process),” DepEd said.

Moreover, DepEd asked schools to use the correct spelling prescribed by KWF in instructional materials and correspondence that will be officially released.

In 2013, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, who was then the chairman of KWF, pushed for the use of “Filipinas” as the international name of the country.

Tagle, pope's special envoy for bishops' meet in Bangkok

By Franco Jose C. Baroña

POPE Francis has appointed Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as his special envoy for the upcoming and biggest gathering of Asian bishops in Thailand's capital city of Bangkok.

Tagle, the pro-prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, will preside over the closing Mass of the 50th general conference of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) on October 30 at the Assumption Cathedral, the principal Roman Catholic church of Thailand at the Bang Rak District of Bangkok.

The Asian bishops' meeting will begin on October 12 and will be held at the Baan Phu Waan Pastoral Center of the Archdiocese of Bangkok.

More than 140 bishops from Asia are expected to attend the conference.

This year's conference theme is "FABC 50: Journeying together as peoples of Asia...and they went a different way." (Mt 2:12).

The assembly also marks the belated 50th anniversary celebration of FABC, which was established in 1970 with the approval of the Holy See.

The FABC Secretariat said the 19-day conference will "reflect on the re-emerging and emerging realities and challenges of the Church in Asia."

Before being appointed to the Dicastery for Evangelization, Cardinal Tagle headed the FABC's Office of Theological Concerns while he was still the Archbishop of Manila.

The FABC is an association of Catholic episcopal conferences in Asia to foster solidarity and joint responsibility for the welfare of the Church and society in the region.

The association's leadership is currently led by Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon as president, with Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith of Colombo as vice president, and Archbishop Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo as secretary general.

The FABC earlier called on Catholics to pray for the association so it will continue to be steadfast in its mission.

This charge was given by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in a circular sent to dioceses last week.

'Tagle could be next Pope'

Originally written in English, the "Prayer for FABC 50" was translated in four Philippine languages: Tagalog, Waray, Hiligaynon, and Cebuano.

The FABC asked its member episcopal conferences that the prayer be prayed in all churches until October 30 for the success of its general conference.

In his message for the occasion, Pope Francis expressed hope that FABC will "renew the Churches in Asia in fraternal communion and in missionary zeal for the spread of the Gospel among the richly diverse peoples, cultures and social realities of the vast Asian continent."

What faith and obedience can enable us

By Fr. Roy Cimagala *

THAT gospel episode where Christ asked Peter to put out into deep water and lower his nets for a catch shows us that when we would simply have faith in God, we can do wonders in our spiritual life and apostolate despite the great odds that we may have to contend with. (cfr. Lk 5,1-11)

At first, Peter was doubtful if what Christ told him was worth following. “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing,” he said. but to his credit, he immediately corrected himself. “But at your command I will lower the nets.”

The story is very moving indeed, and the good news is that it can happen to any of us as long as we have faith and trust in God. And because of that faith and trust, we can just obey God’s will and ways even if humanly speaking they may appear to us as an impossibility.

We need to learn to trust God, and in his word and in his ways, no matter how unreasonable, impractical or impossible. For this, we have to go beyond our own understanding and estimation of things, and open our mind and heart to the light of our faith and love for God and for others.

While it’s true that we have to use all our human faculties in dealing with our earthly affairs and concerns, that is, our intelligence and will, our sciences and arts, our common sense and cultural and social wisdom, we should not forget that all these would have no real value unless they are engaged with our faith in God.

God knows everything. He is omnipotent. He actually intervenes in our lives in the most intimate way since he is the one who ultimately supports our existence and who governs it wisely with his providence.

We have to realize that God continues to work and to govern over all his creation, and as his image and likeness, as his children, we are meant to cooperate in carrying God’s work and governance here on earth. Seen in this way, any work we do, as long as it is honest and good work, is actually first of all God’s work before it is ours. We should be excited to carry out that work with him!

We should just develop the sense of feeling at home with the fact that our life and all the challenges and trials we are going to face in it will always demand from us things beyond our powers and resources. And that’s simply because we are meant to go to God for all our needs, without neglecting any effort we can give along the way.

With God, we have everything. As St. Teresa de Avila would put it, “Solo Dios basta!” What we lack in our humanity, we can always make up by relying always and completely on God. 

But, alas, this can happen only when we have faith, for faith is our best resource. As St. John puts it in his first letter, “This is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith.” (Jn 5,4) Without faith, we are left with a big problem right from the start.

Thus, before all this exciting drama and adventure of life, our attitude should be that of being sporty and game, based on our faith in God and trust in his all-powerful and merciful providence. This attitude is actually what is presumed every time we enter into some form of commitment, whether to a vocation or marriage or work, etc.

* Chaplain Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE), Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

UNDUE CARE AND ANXIETY

 

Worries, doubts, and anxieties are a normal part of life. It’s natural to worry about an unpaid bill, an upcoming job interview, or a first date. But “normal” worry becomes excessive when it’s persistent and uncontrollable. You worry every day about “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios, you can’t get anxious thoughts out of your head, and it interferes with your daily life.

Constant worrying, negative thinking, and always expecting the worst can take a toll on your emotional and physical health. It can sap your emotional strength, leave you feeling restless and jumpy, cause insomnia, headaches, stomach problems, and muscle tension, and make it difficult to concentrate at work or school. You may take your negative feelings out on the people closest to you, self-medicate with alcohol or drugs, or try to distract yourself by zoning out in front of screens. Chronic worrying can also be a major symptom of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), a common anxiety disorder that involves tension, nervousness, and a general feeling of unease that colors your whole life.

If you’re plagued by exaggerated worry and tension, there are steps you can take to turn off anxious thoughts. Chronic worrying is a mental habit that can be broken. You can train your brain to stay calm and look at life from a more balanced, less fearful perspective.

We hardly count our blessings. We enjoy counting our crosses. Instead of gains, we count our losses. We don't have to do all that counting - computers do it for us. Information is easily had.

Just remember this: Opportunity doesn't just knock - it jiggles the doorknob, and "your friend" - the worrier, is with you day and night, at every corner, following your every step. Complaining and grumbling are good excuses, aren't they? We have time and opportunities to do almost anything. So why haven't we done it? We have the freedom of bondage or restraint, every one of us in his or her very special way - but, we're still our old inferior selves.

The overbearing person, who tyrannizes the weak, the person, who wants to domineer and to bluster, is simply nothing else than a worrier, who might claim to be a friend. But he isn't! Really not! The bullying of fellow citizens by means of dread and fright has been going on since Paleolithic times. The night wolf is eating the moon. Give me silver, and I'll make him spit out.

Well, when will we start counting our courage and not our fears, or enjoy instead our woes? Worrying itself is pointless. Of course,  no society has achieved perfect rules of law, never-ending education or unique responsible governments. Let's seek out the worries but avoid the warriors, because they try to avoid liberty.

Covid cases down by 15%

By Kaithreen Cruz, Manila Times

THE nationwide seven-day average of new Covid-19 cases further dropped to 2,959 as of August 27, a 15-percent decline from the previous week, according to OCTA Research.

OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David said the seven-day average was at its highest just two weeks ago at 4,071 cases.

The average daily attack rate (ADAR) was 2.69 per 100,000 population — classified as low — as the reproduction rate, or the number of new cases caused by one infected individual, slid from 0.96 on August 17 to 0.91 on August 24.

A decrease in the positivity rate was also observed, from 16.2 to 14.3 percent as of August 26.

"If the current trends in the growth rate hold, this projects to less than 1,000 cases per day nationwide by mid-September and less than 500 per day by end of September," David said.

The World Health Organization set a 5-percent positivity rate benchmark to indicate that the infection is under control.

OCTA also observed that the Covid-19 reproduction number in the National Capital Region (NCR) was going down, to 0.99 on August 23 from 1.02 on August 16.

It was the first time since last May 11 that the reproduction number in Metro Manila had dropped below 1.

Covid positivity rate in NCR dips

David said infected numbers might be finally trending down, although at a slower rate.

The NCR positivity rate was at 13.6 percent on August 25, down by 1.1 percent from August 18, with new cases also decreasing to a seven-day average of 1,002 and a one-week growth rate of -9 percent.

"With the current pace, it could take eight weeks before the positivity rate decreases to less than five percent," David predicted.

Health care utilization for Covid-19 and ICU occupancy in NCR both dropped — from 37 to 35 percent and from 31 to 27 percent, respectively, from August 20 to August 25.

Last Friday, Department of Health (DoH) Officer in Charge Maria Rosario Vergeire reminded Filipinos to get vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19 to prevent hospitalization and deaths due to the virus.

The Pinas Lakas campaign is trying to administer booster shots to 23 million Filipinos before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s first 100 days in office.

The DoH has administered 17.5 million boosters, 4.8 million of which were from NCR.

Vergeire noted that 60 percent of severe and critical Covid cases were either unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated.

Common tower policy to boost internet service

Information and Communications Secretary Ivan John Uy. Photo from Facebook page of Department of Information and Communications Technology

By Franco Jose C. Baroña

Information and Communications Secretary Ivan John Uy. Photo from Facebook page of Department of Information and Communications Technology

THE government has launched several programs that will "definitely speed up the deployment of better, more reliable and more economical connectivity" in the country, the head of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said.

Interviewed on "Business and Politics," a weekly TV program hosted by The Manila Times Chairman Dante "Klink" Ang 2nd, DICT Secretary Ivan John Enrile Uy said the Philippines has gone up several notches in terms of internet connectivity.

"But I am not happy and not satisfied. We aim to improve it further," he said.

Under the concept, telecommunications or communication service providers (telcos) will erect towers that they can lease to other telcos.

"So, each tower can now host several telcos instead of one tower per telco," Uy said.

The concept could bring the Philippines "up to par or even exceed" its neighbor Vietnam in terms of connectivity and internet speed, he said.

To further expand 5G, more towers need to be put up because the frequency requires that the towers be closer to each other, Uy said.

"For 4G you can have towers farther apart, 3G even farther apart. As we go higher, the density of the towers in a certain area has to increase. That is the challenge now," he said.

In the latest Speedtest Global Index, the Philippines' fixed broadband download speeds still lagged behind Vietnam's, but were well ahead of Asean countries Laos, Brunei, Indonesia, Cambodia and Myanmar.

The country's mobile internet download speeds are just below Vietnam's, according to the index.

Uy said the DICT is also helping Elon Musk's satellite-based Starlink set up business in the Philippines.

Starlink is run by SpaceX and provides satellite internet access to 39 countries.

"Filipinos can start to feel the benefits of this technology in less than 12 months," Uy said.

He said DICT already had several talks with Starlink officials.

"They are very encouraged because of our foreign direct investment laws. These have actually been liberalized and so they have been incentivized to bring in their business here. In fact, that is one of the reasons why they decided to set up Starlink in the Philippines," Uy said.

He stressed satellite technology is "not for everyone," particularly in urban areas where fiber optics had been laid down.

Uy noted that fiber optic technology is still the best in terms of bringing broadband to homes and businesses with its almost unlimited capacity in terms of speed, latency and economies of scale.

However, for the Philippines, which has more than 7,100 islands, satellite technology is more appropriate.

"The benefits of satellite technology will be more apparent in remote areas in the Philippines since in many of those islands fiber optics technology will not be feasible, at least not economically," Uy said.

"There are very small and sparsely populated islands and laying out those [fiber optic] submarine cables can cost too much for the income that can be generated from those small communities. We really have to use satellite technology in order to effectively provide internet connectivity to these areas," he added.

Uy said a lot of other foreign technology companies are "waiting, seeing and observing" how these investment laws in the Philippines will play.

"We would be having a mission soon to the US to explain to tech companies what the liberation for investments that the country has are and invite them over to do more investments," he said.

Last week, Uy said he met with US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Loss Carlson to discuss investment opportunities American businessmen might want to explore in the country.

"She was very optimistic about the increased opportunities for foreigner investment of US companies in the country. She really actually looks forward to even more trade and economic activity between the two countries," Uy said of Carlson.

Albay prepares for Mayon eruption

BEAUTIFUL AND PERILOUS Mount Mayon in Albay appears calm from a distance on Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022, but it may erupt anytime. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the restive volcano might produce pyroclastic flows due to the lava dome blocking the volcano’s crater. Photo by Rhaydz B. Barcia

By Rhaydz Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY: The provincial government of Albay is bracing for a complex disaster as Mount Mayon is again showing signs of an impending eruption amid the typhoon season and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Gov. Noel Rosal urged the province's disaster officials to prepare for an intricate situation after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) resident volcanologist, Dr. Paul Alanis, warned of a possible lava-dome collapse that might generate pyroclastic flows.

Rosal also called for an emergency meeting with national government agencies and disaster responders to discuss the measures, guidelines and strict enforcement of a no-man's land within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone.

The new governor of Albay told the disaster officials of various local government units to bar civilians, specifically the farmers toiling on the fertile soils of the Mayon Volcano slopes, from entering the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone.

Rosal also ordered all the local government units to start evacuating residents living inside the no-man's land to ensure their safety and security.

Alanis warned of a possible collapse of the lava dome from the summit, which might generate pyroclastic flows that would cascade down the southeast quadrant of the volcano facing Legazpi City, Sto. Domingo, Daraga and Camalig.

Phivolcs hoisted Alert Level 1 over Mayon Volcano on Sunday afternoon, August 21, for exhibiting restiveness.

Alanis said the lava dome at the volcano's crater generating a faint glow may crumble anytime, posing danger to the people who might enter the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone.

Magna carta for Filipino seafarers pushed

By Javier Joe Ismael

SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go on Saturday pushed for the passage of the proposed Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers as he emphasized the need to recognize the rights and contributions of the country's seafarers.

Go had earlier filed Senate Bill 1191 which aims to provide for a Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers to secure the right of the country's seafarers to decent and humane employment and set a guide for seafarers on training, overseas employment, and retirement.

The proposed measure seeks to institute mechanisms for the enforcement and protection of Filipino seafarers and provide the compulsory benefits that they deserve.

"The Philippines has been the primary supplier of maritime labor and considered the manning capital of seafarers globally since 1987. Of the 1.5 million mariners worldwide, 25 percent are Filipinos, making them the single biggest nationality bloc in the maritime industry," Go said.

"Despite the risk associated with a seafaring job, many Filipinos still chose the profession and gambled their life on board just to provide a better life for their families. Filipino seafarers' remittances have been genuinely beneficial to the Philippine economy. In fact, they contributed $6.54 billion or around 21 percent of the total OFW remittances in 2021," he said in a statement.

The senator underscored the need for the country to enhance and strengthen its measures in fulfilling its duties and obligations as the 30th Member State to ratify the International Maritime Labor Convention of 2006 (MLC).

"It is high time for the government to pass an additional piece of legislation that would benefit Filipino seafarers and give them rights corresponding to the MLC standards," Go stressed.

The Magna Carta codifies the rights of the seafarers into a single reference law, including their right to just terms and conditions of work, self-organization, educational advancement and training, information and consultation, fair treatment in the event of an accident, and against discrimination.

It also provides standard terms and conditions of employment for seafarers, including provisions related to wages, hours of work and rest, leaves, and social welfare benefits. It likewise mandates ship owners to provide medical care, both onboard and ashore, as well as a financial security system to assist our seafarers in case of injuries.

Marcos gov’t ‘respects press freedom’, says Angeles

by Betheena Unite, Manila Bulletin

Malacañang has assured Philippine media that press freedom is guaranteed and they “won’t change anything” under the Marcos administration.

Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles (Photo courtesy of the Office of Press Secretary)

Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles stated on Friday, Aug. 26, that the government, under the leadership of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., will uphold the rights of journalists in the country. "

Sa isang panayam ng ating state media kahapon, binanggit natin na kinikilala at nirerespeto ng ating pamahalaan sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Pangulong Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. ang press freedom o ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag ng ating mga kasama sa media (In an interview with our state media yesterday, I mentioned that the government, under the leadership of President Marcos, recognizes and respects press freedom),” Angeles said in a Facebook post. You’re free to talk. We’re not changing anything. Whatever freedom we have now will always be our freedom. Our Constitution guarantees that,” Angeles said. 

Upon assuming the presidency, Marcos committed to personally face the media when it comes to pressing issues, thus he did not designate his own spokesperson.

The sweet poison of the good life

 

By Fr. Roy Cimagala *

LET’S be wary of the danger that the privileges, gifts and good fortune we enjoy in life can bring about. Christ warned us of this possibility when he said, “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor. A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him…Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place…” (Lk 14,8-10)

And he concluded this warning by saying that “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Lk 14,11) Instead, he asked us to give special or preferential attention and care for the poor, the weak and the sick.

It’s a lesson that we should learn and live well. It is what makes us like Christ and able to do and cooperate with his sanctifying and redemptive mission that we have to continue till the end of time.

Let’s be reminded that the privileges, favors and blessings we enjoy in life are meant for us to strengthen our desire to serve and not to be served. But as it is, we should try to avoid them, since they tend only to spoil and corrupt us.

We have to be most wary when we happen to enjoy some privileged positions or status in life because we tend to think that we deserve more entitlements. And not only would we expect them. We may even demand them for us.

This, sad to say, seems to be a common phenomenon these days. It can affect everyone, of course, but it especially affects the young ones who appear to be more privileged than those in the previous generations because of the many new things they are learning and enjoying now. And they feel entitled.

We should banish this temptation as soon as it makes its appearance felt in us. On the contrary, we should follow the example of Christ who, in spite of who he is, just wanted to serve. 

We should develop the intense desire to have a special concern for those who have less in life, like the simple and the weak, the sick and disabled, the children and the poor. 

This truth of our faith is somehow highlighted in that gospel episode where Christ preached about the need to be like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven, the care not to despise the little children, and his intent always to look for the lost sheep, regardless of the cost and effort involved. (cfr. Mt 18,1-5.10.12-14)

If we are truly Christian, we should have true and abiding compassion toward everyone, especially the poor and the needy. But we have to understand that compassion should have universal coverage. It should not be limited to the sentimental aspects of things, nor to relieving the economic and material needs of people alone.

It should cover the whole range of human needs in their proper order of importance, foremost of which is our need for God. We have to learn to distinguish between the pressing and precious needs of man, and to cope with the tension that sometimes arises in our effort to put these two kinds of human needs together.

In this concern, we have to understand that the poor may not be the ones who are economically poor. They can be the richest, the most educated, the most famous and powerful, but who happen to be farthest from God. They can turn out, in that context, to be the poorest of the poor, the lost sheep that have strayed farthest from God.

* Chaplain Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE), Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

Why are there so many OFWs in the Philippines?

 

Bisaya

Proud Bisaya 

OFWs, or Overseas Filipino Workers, have become a significant part of the Philippines economy. They remit billions of dollars to the country annually, supporting families and fuelling local businesses. So why are there so many OFWs in the Philippines? One reason is that job opportunities are often limited at home. Many OFW Pinoy[1] has the skills and qualifications to work abroad, but there are not enough jobs. In addition, OFWs often earn higher wages than they would at home, which can be a significant incentive to leave family and friends behind in search of work. Finally, many Filipinos view working abroad as an opportunity to explore new cultures and gain new experiences. For many OFWs, the hope is that their time away from home will eventually lead to a better life for themselves and their families.

Footnotes

[1] Home

EU wants to boost trade with PH

Romanian Ambassador Raduta Dana Matache gestures during a roundtable interview with The Manila Times Chairman and CEO Dante ‘Klink’ Ang 2nd on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022. PHOTO BY JOHN RYAN BALDEMOR

By Bernadette E. Tamayo, Manila Times

THE Philippines should take advantage of the "heightened interest" of the European Union to boost trade with the Philippines, the ambassador of Romania to Manila said.

"The whole of the EU is interested in the Philippines," Ambassador Raduta Dana Matache said on Thursday in a roundtable interview with The Manila Times Chairman Dante "Klink" Ang 2nd.

Matache started as Romania's envoy to the Philippines last December with a mandate from Romanian President Klaus Iohannis "to help re-launch relations" between Bucharest and Manila.

The Philippines and Romania celebrated half a century of diplomatic relations this year. The two countries established diplomatic ties on Feb. 29, 1972.

There are an estimated 1,300 Filipinos in the central European country.

Romania was the first country in the former socialist eastern European bloc with which the Philippines established diplomatic ties, at the initiative of former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.

Asked how she could put the Philippines on the "radar" of the Romanian people and the rest of the EU, Matache said Romania can serve as the Philippines' "springboard" to the European community.

"You should take advantage of this heightened interest and have this responsibility for enhanced cooperation [with EU]," she said.

The ambassador added that it "would help immensely" if the Philippines reopens its embassy in Bucharest which was closed in 2012 supposedly to cut costs.

Matache said her government is "interested in a strong, free democratic Philippines that is at peace with its neighbors."

"We are interested in freedom of navigation because in a globalized world, even if Romania is 10,000 kilometers away, [it] is affected by everything that happens here," she said.

The Philippines has some areas of development that interest Romania most, the envoy said. "You have a fantastic business process outsourcing sector. We have a lot of startups. We can help each other by putting together a competitive advantage," Matache said.

In a video message in June during a cultural event co-hosted by the Romanian embassy in Manila, Romanian Foreign Affairs Minister Bogdan Aurescu said his country is determined to strengthen its ties with the Philippines and jointly promote international order in the Indo-Pacific region.

Aurescu said Romania continues to be actively involved in the implementation of the EU Indo-Pacific strategy. "We advocate that a stable and developed Southeast Asia is central to a safe and prosperous world," Aurescu added. "All these as well as our common interests in ensuring and preserving peace and security and respect for human rights worldwide bring our two countries even closer."

"We look forward to expanding our bilateral, political and economic cooperation, trade investments and people to people exchanges," he said.

Davao City steps up school vaccinations

By Ruth Palo

THE Davao City government has intensified its school-based vaccinations as face-to-face classes have started in most schools in the city.

Covid-19 Task Force spokeswoman Dr. Michelle Schlosser, however, admitted that the vaccination rollout for 5 to 11 years old could turn out to be the most challenging should parents refuse to have their children vaccinated.

"We are intensifying the school-based vaccinations but the dilemma of our vaccination team is if parents refuse to have their children vaccinated. At the end of the day, no vaccinations will happen if there is no consent from the parents," Schlosser said in a radio program over Davao City Disaster Radio.

She urged parents to instill the importance of wearing masks in their children to prevent the transmission of Covid-19.

Personnel from the Safety and Security Cluster, she said, are deployed to the city's schools and are strictly implementing the wearing of masks as they continue to heighten monitoring of Covid-19 cases in the city.

Schlosser has continuously appealed to the parents of 5 to 11 years old to have their children vaccinated since infection among this age group is inevitably spread because most kids are not keen on adhering to minimum public health standards.

"We are still emphasizing the wearing of masks. You can teach your children to wear their masks every single time that they are in school. Have them vaccinated because we don't want them to suffer from the severity of the disease if they do get infected," she said.

Schlosser also urged teaching and nonteaching personnel to make sure their learners or students wear masks inside their classrooms and schools.

A spirituality adapted to the changing times

By Fr. Roy Cimagala *

WE, of course, are told that nothing is new under the sun. (cfr. Ecc 1,9) But neither can we deny that times are changing, the world is evolving, developments continue to take place, and at these times, they come quite rapidly. And so, we also have to make certain adaptations in the way we keep and nourish our spiritual life. Otherwise, we would simply get lost or, at least, confused.

Obviously, the basics have to be retained. We need to pray always, have recourse to the sacraments, grow in the virtues, wage constant ascetical struggle, etc. But we have to find new ways of how to go about them. 

These should be ways that effectively address the new features of our times when we have easy access to the new and powerful technologies, when we are asked to expand our scope of concerns, when we have to grow more in our sense of solidarity and subsidiarity, etc.

Yes, we have to learn to be more flexible and versatile, more open to the new things without compromising the traditional basic things, more adept in keeping the proper focus as we cruise through rapidly varying circumstances and situations.

Of great importance in this regard is the need for upgrading our vigilance skills, since we will always have to contend with very smart and wily enemies of our soul and of God himself. We are reminded of this need in that parable of the 10 virgins. (cfr. Mt 25,1-13)

We should not take this need for granted. We have to continually update and upgrade our vigilance skills. Remember Christ telling his disciples: “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life…Be vigilant at all times.” (Lk 21,34.36)

Truth is the many developments today, while giving us a lot of advantages and conveniences, can also easily lead us to bad things. They can foster complacency, self-indulgence, vanity, pride, greed, envy, discord, etc. They can turn us into materialistic monsters, totally insensitive to the spiritual and supernatural realities of our life and to God himself.

We should never underestimate the tricks and snares of the devil, the false allurements of the world, and the dynamic of our weakened and wounded flesh. These enemies of our soul will constantly make new guises to mislead and tempt us. To upgrade our vigilance skills is not a matter of paranoia. It is to be realistic. It is to be effectively prudent.

We should not be naïve to think that with our current skills at spiritual and moral vigilance, we are already okay. We have to sharpen our sense of purpose in life, seeing to it that its general goal is being consistently lived and reinforced in the many subsidiary purposes we have during the year, month, week, day, and even hour. 

With how things are now, we cannot simply rely on a generic sense of purpose. We have to learn how to be vigilant in all circumstances and situations in life, especially when we are tired, troubled, or when thrilled and excited.

Thus, it would be helpful that from time to time, we pause and examine how we are doing in our spiritual life. Do we still have the proper spiritual and supernatural bearing? Are there things to be corrected or modified? Are we aware of the state of our spiritual and moral resources?

We have to always find the answers to these questions!

* Chaplain Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE),Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

Is teaching abroad a good career option for expats?

  by Sophie Hoy *

Many expatriates teach their native language in their country of residence. It is essential to have diplomas to teach in schools or institutions of any kind. Still, it is also possible to do some tutoring, and this does not require any certificate, even if it is recommended. Many learners wish to speak with a native speaker about any subject, thus learning the language and the culture, without going through theoretical courses or working on the basics in an academic way.

But is it viable to teach one's native language while living in a foreign country? The following inspiring testimonials illustrate life as a teacher abroad.

Expats who love teaching and never get tired of it

Laura is Irish. She has lived in France for 4 years, where she taught English to professionals in organizations and gave private lessons. During these 4 years, she worked face-to-face, an option that was much more profitable than the online lessons. Therefore she had a good living as an expatriate teacher. Arriving in Paris with very little knowledge of French, she adapted herself and finally acquired an intermediate level. Since 2013, Laura has been living in Scotland, and although she has moved to an English-speaking country this time, she continues her teaching mission and works 100% as a distance learning teacher to foreigners abroad.

Ninotchka has an atypical life path. We could say that she has been an expatriate for her whole life. Born in Spain, she grew up in the United States and then spent most of her life in England, where she became a citizen. Living in France with her expat husband since 2018, she remembers their arrival in France without much knowledge of the language. They took 6 weeks of classes to perfect their French skills, but the lockdown and the pandemic deprived them of many interactions that would probably have been beneficial. Thanks to her husband, Ninotchka quickly adapted to life in the south of France and did not get homesick, which she feared when she moved there. As far as teaching is concerned, she is particularly grateful to her English friend James (see below), who introduced her to his employer so that she could become a teacher like him. Thanks to his help, she now teaches English and Spanish to adults, as well as to children, in private lessons and through that specialized company. She even provides distance learning. Ninotchka explains that one can live well as an expat teacher in France. Nevertheless, she admits that distance learning has played an essential role in the development of her own business and warns that face-to-face classes alone may not be sufficient depending on the region where you live.

Francine is a French teacher. She started as a freelancer 8 years ago when she arrived in Mauritius, before working for a local training company. She now delivers mainly in-company training, both face-to-face and online, because of Covid. In Mauritius, most of the learners have acquired the basics of French during their schooling. English is the administrative language, but French is still the country's spoken language, in addition to Mauritian Kreol. Francine believes that there is a real need for French lessons. Thanks to her actual job, but also thanks to private lessons, which complete her income, she manages to live well on the island. She enjoys every moment because she is passionate about teaching. Her personal pride is to have English-speaking learners who started with zero knowledge and who can hold a conversation after only 30 hours of working with her.

Teaching children is also a good option

Marion has been a British expatriate in Mauritius since 2014. She taught adults in a specialized institute when she arrived in the country. For the past few years, she has been working exclusively with children in a French school where she teaches English but also history and geography in English for international classes. Her husband is Mauritian, so it was easy to settle there. Concerning expat life in Mauritius, Marion explains that it is not always that easy. "Cars are very expensive as well as the schooling in private schools for international children. Property rentals can also be expensive depending on what you are looking for", but still, she assures that it is possible to live well. "It remains a challenge if you don't have any support locally". She recommends preparing any expatriation well in advance.

James is from the United Kingdom. He has been living and teaching English in France since 2013 to adults and younger learners preparing for their Baccalaureate. He admits that he “thought” he could speak French when he arrived in France but soon realized that he had to take classes. And this is exactly what made him want to become a teacher and have a turnover in his career. So he decided to cut back on his activities with England, completed a training course to obtain his TEFL, and immediately started working as an English teacher. "It was easy," he says! Today, James has a flourishing business in France, but he joins other testimonies: thanks to distance learning, he manages to cover all the regions of the national territory. Moreover, his employer, a language training company, finds him the clients! What more could you ask for? 

Well, since he is happy with his own situation and his job, he shared his experience and recommended his friend Ninotchka to do the same... and she is delighted, as we have seen.

Teaching can be more complicated in some places than others.

Ronald has an atypical profile as well. He was born in Brazil and then grew up in Brazil and Germany. Following his return to Sao Paulo in 2010, he became a German and English teacher. Between 2013 and 2016, he taught in companies to adults and private clients based in Sao Paulo. Since 2016 he has expanded his activities through online training companies. However, his learners are no longer only in Brazil. Ronald explains that it is possible to have a good living if you provide courses to local private institutes or schools, but working with foreign companies guarantees a much higher income. They pay better as rates are in EUR or USD. Therefore, he finds it more secure to work with both local and international companies.

Rose is from the UK and has lived in Bulgaria for 12 years. She teaches only to private companies in distance learning. Eight years ago, she taught at a University of Economics, but she reminds us of a local reality about her discipline. In Bulgaria, foreign languages are not considered core subjects like math. Thus, language teachers earn only around 400 euros per month while other teachers get much more. It was not sustainable to continue working for this kind of rate. So now, she teaches distance learning courses to adults through international companies. This allows her to live decently on a Western European salary while living in one of the poorest countries in the EU.

Expats who have teaching in their blood even after returning home 

Hélène is French. She lived in Canada for 10 years, where she taught her mother tongue in a Canadian non-profit organization whose objective was to promote the French language abroad. She mainly taught children during her stay. It was quite simple to settle in Canada. She initially moved for an internship as a cultural and resource manager; then, she was hired by the organization, and her position evolved. Looking back to her arrival, she thinks she had an intermediate level of English, but after 10 years, she became perfectly bilingual and even obtained Canadian nationality. She explains that it is easy to find a job as a language teacher. Native teachers are in high demand because it is a bilingual country, and the only wholly French-speaking province is Quebec. This is the reason why the other provinces have real needs for teachers. In the public sector, a diploma is generally required (at least in British Columbia). But in the private sector and in organizations, working is even possible without a diploma, and there are many French schools throughout the whole country. Regarding the cost of living in Canada: “This is a complicated issue” she says. “Life can be very expensive, depending on the province where you live”. Hélène explains that it is still possible to live well as an expat teacher in any of them and even in Vancouver, where everything is very expensive.

Today, Hélène is no longer in Canada, but she continues to teach French and has added teaching English to her path. That is a great career development for her, and she always has the same pleasure in sharing her knowledge with others.

Berna is American and has lived in France for 20 years. She did not teach her native language at that time, but she witnessed the potential and need for native teachers. She did not speak French when she arrived and learned it later. She was in touch with expatriate teachers who seemed to be able to make a living from it. She found great interest in the distance learning approach. So since her return in 2005, she has devoted herself to teaching her native language to adults for a specialized company offering distance learning courses to French executives. 

Whether teaching is difficult or not in the countries where our expats live, they found a way to live a pleasant life. They sometimes combine international education with local courses to make life better. Teachers of all ages, and even retired ones, have one thing in common: they love what they do. Sharing their knowledge is a fire that burns within their heart, and the flame does not go out so easily. Sometimes, all it takes is a spark to launch into the tutoring adventure. 

Article translated from Enseigner à l'étranger : est-ce une option viable pour s'expatrier ?