DepEd reiterates support for Filipino teachers in the Middle East through SPIMS reintegration program

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

MAKATI CITY, 2 March 2026 - In light of the evolving security situation in parts of the Middle East, the Department of Education (DepEd) affirms its readiness to support Filipino teachers who may be affected and are considering returning to the Philippines.


Through the Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir (SPIMS) Program, DepEd, in coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), provides a reintegration pathway for licensed Filipino teachers employed overseas to transition into the public school system.

 


Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the Department’s commitment to supporting returning educators: “Sa mga gurong Pilipino sa Gitnang Silangan at sa iba pang panig ng mundo, bukas ang pintuan ng ating mga pampublikong paaralan para sa inyo. Kung magpapasya kayong umuwi, kasama ninyo ang DepEd sa panibagong yugto ng inyong paglilingkod.”


Qualified applicants may be hired and appointed as Teacher I under permanent status, subject to compliance with established qualification standards and existing hiring guidelines.


The SPIMS Program is an employment reintegration convergence initiative led by the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (DMW-NRCO) and implemented in coordination and partner agencies, including DepEd, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and other relevant government offices.


The program ensures institutional coordination for a structured and orderly transition of returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) into the public education system.


Specifically, SPIMS aims to provide returning OFW Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) passers with gainful employment in public schools, help address teacher shortages in support of the K to 12 curriculum, and offer online refresher courses for those who may need to update their pedagogical competencies in line with current educational standards.


Eligible applicants must be Filipino citizens or Philippine passport holders who are LET passers with at least one year of accumulated teaching experience within the last five years and who have not resided in the Philippines for more than three consecutive years based on their latest arrival record.


For guidance on the application process and documentary requirements, applicants may coordinate with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) or the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) through their official channels. Required documents include a valid PRC ID, Certificate of Board Rating, and proof of employment abroad.


DepEd recognizes the valuable contributions of Filipino teachers abroad and remains steadfast in strengthening the country’s teacher workforce while upholding support mechanisms for educators, both at home and overseas.