Thanks to Siam Pinoy Forums, the Filipino teachers’ community is continuously updated with the latest information on teacher licensing activities conducted by the Teachers’ Council of Thailand of the Ministry of Education.

The Association of Filipinos in Thailand Isan Chapter headed by its officers and active member organized the training on Thai Culture and Language, Professional Standards and Code of Conduct for foreign teachers at St. Mary College in Nakornratchasima on July 17, 18 and 19 2008.

“We were able to gather 76 Filipino teachers including a few other nationalities to join this important training. This is a big help to us since we don’t need spend a lot just to attend this training in Bangkok,” Mrs. Ma. Linda S. Jenkins, AFT- Isan former president, explained.

The training on Thai culture is the hottest buzz in the foreign teaching industry for all foreign teachers are required to apply for teaching licenses should they wish to work as professional teachers in Thailand.

“AFT- Isan organized this training with the Private School Teachers Association of Thailand (PSTAT) in order to help our fellow Filipino teachers and not to gain profit from them,” Mrs. Monaliza Sangvoranit, AFT-Isan adviser, divulged.

The Association of Filipinos in Thailand – Isan chapter was formally registered at the Philippine Embassy –Bangkok last year though the Filipino community in Nakhonratchasima which started many years ago in Korat. It is headed by its present officers: Mrs. Eva Apa (President); Miss Kristine Gempesala (Vice-president); Miss Jovie Gerarman (Secretary); Mr. Ryan Rey Domopoy (Treasurer); and Miss Jonavy Lozada (PRO).

Miss Heda Tan popularly known as Madam H at the Siam Pinoy Forums recalled that it was Father Filomino Mahusay, one of the coordinators of the training, who called her up to find out more about the said training. Miss Tan also recognized the effort of Mr. Abby in introducing the Siam Pinoy Filipino Online Community in Korat. The Siam Pinoy founders and friends shortly attended the second day of the said training.

Abel Morales Cadias