"Children, Meet Your Teachers"

Browsing the seemingly endless variety of Filipino newspapers available here in Southern California, I came across one that captured my interest. The top story in the mid-August edition of Philippine News is a photo entitled, "Children, Meet Your Teachers." Pictured are 93 newly-arrived teachers from the Philippines being welcomed by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa on August 11, in front of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. The report goes on to describe that the Philippine Embassy offers services including orientation seminars designed to ease the teachers' transition into American classrooms.

It looks like the Philippine Embassy is doing what FAEALA is doing. Or, is it the other way around? Whatever the case may be, action is taking place and invaluable services are provided. It is a wonderful thing. Perhaps there is an opportunity here for collaboration and partnership among groups that ultimately share the same vision. Whether it is the Philippine Embassy, FAEALA, churches, businesses or individuals, that welcomes and support our fellow 'Kababayans,' the spirit of 'Bayanihan' is alive and well. Might there be others out there?