Lifestyle

• As traditional pathways for migration are evolving, more Filipinos are seeking work and study opportunities beyond the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
• To help them navigate the migration shift, the British Council, a globally recognised provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), equips candidates with the support and resources needed to gain internationally recognised qualifications for work, study, and living abroad.
• With the British Council IELTS, Filipino students and professionals can expand their horizons in emerging destinations like Germany, New Zealand, Singapore, and Spain.

Popular Filipino migration destinations, such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, are updating their visa and international student regulations in response to recent changes in the global economy, creating chances in new countries. In 2025, the British Council, a widely reputable and acknowledged supplier of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), offers Filipinos individualized assistance to help them obtain globally recognized credentials and investigate new opportunities for employment, education, and living overseas.

Filipino emigrants, who have historically been lured to the “big four” countries—the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—now face a changing landscape. Australia is taking steps to limit the number of overseas students it accepts, while the United States has suspended residence applications due to immigration restrictions. In the meantime, the UK is tightening regulations on student visa rules, and Canada is reducing its programs for temporary foreign worker programs.

To help Filipinos navigate the changing migration landscape, the British Council, the organization that co-jointly runs the IELTS, provides internationally recognised credentials that open doors to a wide range of opportunities worldwide. Accepted by over 12,500 organisations across 140 countries, the British Council provides essential resources and personalised support needed to help Filipinos succeed in the IELTS exam, preparing them for success not only in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, but also in emerging destinations across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Where Filipinos are Headed in 2025
Several countries are now eager to attract global talent, creating new opportunities for Filipino students and professionals. Here are some of the rising destinations for 2025:

New Zealand

New Zealand, known for its thriving agriculture, healthcare, construction, and engineering sectors, is also becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Filipino workers. The country recently overhauled its Accredited Employer Work Visa regulations to make it easier for skilled foreign workers to migrate. These changes include removing restrictions on middle-income jobs, reducing experience requirements from three to two years, and introducing new seasonal worker visas.

Germany

Germany, well-renowned for its expertise in engineering, healthcare, and technology, has become a top destination for Filipino students and professionals. To strengthen its workforce, the country introduced major immigration reforms through the Skilled Labor Immigration Act, a new points-based system which evaluates applicants based on salary, educational level, and German language proficiency, making it easier to enter the country even without a job offer. The country also supports foreign students with a one year opportunity visa, allowing them to gain work experience and improve their chances of securing long-term employment.

“Moving here was a big step, but its world-class education, strong job market, and vibrant culture made it all worth it,” recounts Jay Paul Ely Tena, the 2023 IELTS Prize Winner, who recently pursued his graduate studies in the University of Erfurt. “Adjusting to the language and lifestyle had its challenges, but my IELTS preparation with the British Council gave me the confidence to communicate effectively, both in my studies and daily life,” he adds.

Spain

Spain, a global hub for education and business, is strengthening its immigration policies to boost its workforce. Foreign students pursuing higher education can receive automatic work authorization and can remain in Spain for up to 24 months post-graduation to seek employment or start a business. The country has also removed the three-year residency requirement for switching from a student to a work visa, making it easier for graduates to enter the workforce. Additionally, Spain plans to legalize 300,000 undocumented immigrants annually, granting them work and residence permits.

“Living in Spain has been an incredible experience—the welcoming culture, the balance between work and personal life, and the accessibility of everything made it feel like home,” shares Jessica Badua, the 2022 IELTS Prize winner, who earned her master’s degree at the Universidad de Cádiz. “The British Council IELTS was instrumental in my journey, not only helping me gain admission to my master’s program but also opening doors for scholarships and opportunities that made my transition as an international student smoother and much more rewarding.”

Singapore

Singapore remains a top choice for Filipino professionals. The country’s Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass, part of the city-state’s broader strategy to attract top global talent, allows skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to live and work there for five years without employer restrictions. The country has also simplified pathways for international students to obtain permanent residency, allowing graduates to transition smoothly into the workforce.

“Many Filipinos may feel uncertain about their options due to the changing migration landscape,” says Zoe Zhang, Regional Director for Exams at the British Council. “But the British Council ensures that our candidates have the tools and qualifications they need to prepare for the IELTS and help them succeed on the global stage, even outside the ‘Big 4.’”

Even though migration patterns are constantly changing, the British Council IELTS is dedicated to giving Filipino professionals and students the tools and assistance they need to follow their aspirations of working, studying, and living overseas so they can create a bright future wherever they go.

Reserve your spot for the IELTS exam here: https://bit.ly/4jJrHud. Visit the IELTS British Council website or Facebook page to learn more about the British Council.

• Schneider Electric emphasizes that Philippine businesses can no longer treat energy efficiency as optional. Companies must act now to remain competitive and sustainable.
• While 98% of Philippine businesses have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking meaningful action.
• Schneider Electric’s three-step approach to strategize, digitize, and decarbonize offers a clear path to closing this gap.

Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines, at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference hosted by the Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance, Inc. (PE2) held last March 20 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

Schneider Electric, a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has reaffirmed its call for Philippine businesses to prioritize energy efficiency as the quickest and most economical path to sustainability, as rising energy costs and climate change continue to have an impact on businesses.

Energy efficiency is now a need for companies looking to be resilient and competitive, according to Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines.

“In the Philippines, we have seen an increase in the Green Impact Gap by 5 points since last year’s survey, reaching 46%. While 98% of companies have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking comprehensive steps to meet them,” said Catane. “We need to better understand how we can work together to close this gap. Energy efficiency is the most immediate and impactful solution businesses can adopt today.”

Schneider Electric pioneered the use of the Green Impact Gap to measure the misalignment between companies’ declared commitment towards their sustainability goals and the tangible actions to implement sustainable development.

Energy Efficiency: A Business Imperative

Schneider Electric reports that rising climate risks have led to unstable energy costs and supply chain disruptions, already impacting 41% of businesses in Asia. Moreover, artificial intelligence-driven computing demand is expected to increase data center power consumption by 4.2 times by 2028, further straining energy resources and amplifying the need for smarter energy management.

Schneider Electric’s insights align with data from the PE2. Alexander Ablaza, President of PE2, highlighted the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, stating that businesses could save billions in operational costs while cutting carbon emissions. However, he noted that many companies are still in the process of prioritizing and mainstreaming sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives in their day-to-day operations.

At the same conference, Schneider Electric outlined a three-step approach for businesses to effectively close the Green Impact Gap: Strategize, Digitize, and Decarbonize.

• Strategize: Develop a clear roadmap to sustainability with measurable targets.
• Digitize: Leverage data and automation to monitor and optimize energy consumption.
• Decarbonize: Implement solutions that drive emissions reduction and long-term energy savings.

By adopting these steps, businesses can unlock financial and operational benefits. Schneider Electric’s research found that energy-efficient buildings not only reduce operational costs but also enhance property value and business reputation. Moreover, 42% of Philippine-based companies surveyed recognized new business opportunities arising from improved energy efficiency.

Leaders from the energy, sustainability, and government sectors gathered at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, to drive action on accelerating energy efficiency in the Philippines

A Call to Action for Philippine Enterprises

Schneider Electric, alongside other representatives from both the public and private sector, reaffirmed its commitment to helping businesses navigate the energy transition through advanced solutions and strategic partnerships. “The path to sustainability is clear. Companies that act now will be the ones that thrive. The technology and expertise to drive energy efficiency already exist, and businesses must take decisive steps to turn commitments into real impact,” Catane emphasized.

The private sector is under growing pressure to adopt energy-saving measures as a result of legislative frameworks like the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act. Adopting these solutions is crucial for long-term corporate sustainability and competitiveness in the Philippines, according to Schneider Electric and industry executives who spoke at the conference.

• The camp brings artists from ASEAN, Timor Leste, and India into a shared creative space, where ideas will flow as freely as paint and conversations bridge cultures
• The masterpieces created during the camp will first be displayed in a special exhibition in Shillong, followed by showcases in New Delhi and Malaysia, the ASEAN Chair for 2025

From March 29 to April 7, 2025, the third edition of the ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp (AIAC) will take place in Shillong, bringing together 21 artists from ASEAN Member States, Timor Leste, and India for a 10-day residency. In accordance with the decisions made and approved at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and India’s all-encompassing strategic partnership in the field of culture, the camp, which is being organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in partnership with Seher, will commemorate ten years of India’s Act East Policy by utilizing art as a medium for cultural dialogue.

First conceptualized in 2017 by Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder-Director of SEHER, AIAC has emerged as a key platform for cultural engagement between India and Southeast Asia. Unlike traditional diplomatic gatherings, it will offer a more intimate setting, where artists from different regions, tucked away together, will spend days exchanging techniques, experiences, and perspectives over steaming cups of tea. The focus is not solely on the stunning works they will create – though those are sure to impress – but on the quiet, meaningful exchanges that will echo long after the camp wraps up. Over ten days, artists will create original works, take part in workshops on classical dance, music, and handicrafts, and explore India’s artistic traditions in a collaborative setting. They will also hold interactive sessions with local art students in Shillong and conduct a special workshop at a local school, where visiting ASEAN artists will share their skills and experiences with young learners.

Some of the ASEAN artists taking part in the camp are Ms. Chong Ai Chezer (Singapore), Mr. Abilio da Conceição Silva (Timor Leste), Mr. Panich Phupratana (Thailand), Mr. Phonesith Yernsensuly (Lao PDR), Ms. Mohana Kumara Velu (Malaysia), Ms. Lou Lim (Philippines), Ms. Nwe Ni Soe (Myanmar), Mr. Ros Norak (Cambodia), along with Indian artists Ms. Mrudula Kunatharaju (multi-disciplinary artist), Ms. Mousumi Biswas (realistic figurative paintings), Ms. Japani Shyam Dhurwey (Gond artist), Mr. Kazi Nasir (realistic contemporary nature and wildlife paintings), Mr. Prakash Joshi (Phad artist), Mr. Aayush (wash painting), Mr. Vinay Kumar (Cheriyal artist), Mr. Bappa Chitrakar (Kali Ghat artist), Mr. Chandan Bez Baruah (Postmodernism in Landscape), Mr. Raphael Warjri (acrylic painting).

During the camp, the artists will talk about various forms of painting and their shared cultural histories in various styles and forms of art, initiated and guided by the esteemed Mentors of the Camp—Samindranath Majumdar, Tanmoy Samanta, and Yogendra Tripathi. Each artist will create one work of art, representing different styles—contemporary, modern, traditional, impressionist—while still carrying the essence of their own culture and history.

Mr. Sanjeev Bhargava said, “This camp feels like a heartbeat shared across borders. A gathering where artists don’t just meet, but truly see each other. It’s special because it’s messy and real: paint-stained hands, late-night stories, and the kind of laughter that bridges languages. For me, it’s about watching strangers become family through art, carrying their traditions and dreams into something new, something that lingers in your chest long after the brushes are down.”

A virtual introductory session on March 25 will bring the artists together ahead of the residency. The official press conference and launch of the camp will take place in Delhi on March 29, before the camp moves to Shillong. The event will close with a ceremony featuring cultural performances and an exhibition, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Before traveling to Malaysia, the ASEAN Chair for 2025, for a week-long exhibition, the camp’s creations will be initially seen in a two-day display in New Delhi. By employing art to foster closer regional and cultural relations, AIAC keeps expanding the ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations with every edition.

Ms. Amy Berry (Director, EngagED Consulting, Author of Reimagining Student Engagement: From Disrupting to Driving) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education)

Rex Education marked its 75th anniversary at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque. The theme, celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment, highlighted the company’s dedication to education. Nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and stakeholders attended the two-day event, which focused on addressing key educational challenges through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing.

Gathering of Change Makers in Education

Each year, AECON addresses pressing issues in education, equipping teachers and leaders with valuable insights and solutions. This year, as part of its 75th anniversary, the focus is on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences for every learner and educator.

In his opening remarks, REX COO Roger John Y. Fontelera highlighted that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. He stated, “This year’s AECON isn’t about giving ready-made solutions. Instead, it’s about creating a space for reflection, learning, and collaboration. We want to provide you with stepping stones—resources, strategies, and ideas—that you can adapt to meet the specific needs of your schools, communities, and learners.”

Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of preparing Filipino learners for an increasingly digital world. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to developing future-ready learners by integrating technology, enhancing critical thinking, and strengthening public-private collaborations.

One key session featured a panel discussion with respected education experts and policymakers:

• Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director o of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM
• Dina Joana Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines and former DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching
• Rhodora Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC)
• Joseph Noel Estrada, Legal Counsel of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA)

Moderated by Dr. Edizon Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, the discussion focused on improving learning outcomes in the Philippines. It emphasized evidence-based policy decisions, stronger accountability among education leaders, and the importance of authentic assessments to accurately measure student progress.

In the afternoon, Dr. Amy Berry, Director of EngagED Consulting, led a plenary session on student engagement. She challenged traditional approaches and introduced innovative methods that empower both teachers and students to co-create meaningful learning experiences.

A Moment of Gratitude and the Symphony of Learning

The second day of AECON began with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Parañaque, reflecting on the journey of Rex Education and its mission to support Filipino education.

Mr. Don Timothy Buhain (Chief Executive Officer, Rex Education), Dr. Karol Mark Yee (Executive Director, 2nd Congressional Commission on Education – Phils) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education)

After the mass, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain introduced the Symphony of Learning Solutions, a suite of educational resources supporting lifelong learning, from early childhood to professional development. This initiative highlights REX’s commitment to integrating assessment, intervention, and enrichment for educators and learners.

Buhain compared learning to a symphony, where every effort, resource, and voice comes together to create something meaningful. He assured, “The symphony will improve—with practice, continuous learning, change, and execution. In the future, there will be additions when they are necessary. We will listen and count on our Edukampyon community, including the voice of our learners.”

The Symphony of Learning Solutions includes lesson exemplars, learning instruments, digital platforms like Schoology, and targeted assessments to ensure well-rounded education at every stage.

A Unified Pledge for Quality Education

As the congress concluded, a spirit of unity filled the hall as attendees stood for the Edukampyon Pledge. Led by Jeanne Marie Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of REX, this solemn moment reaffirmed the commitment of educators and education stakeholders to advancing quality education, advocating for policies that support meaningful learning, and prioritizing the best interests of Filipino learners.

75 Years and Beyond: The Edukampyon Commitment

Reaching 75 years is a testament to Rex Education’s dedication to every learner and educator it has served. The journey continues.

Dr. Edizon Fermin (Vice President for Academic Affairs, National Teachers College), Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo (Professor, UP College of Education, Former Undersecretary of Curriculum & Instruction, DepEd), Ms. Rhodora Angela Ferrer (Executive Director, Private Education Assistance Committee – PEAC), Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education), Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada (Legal Counsel for COCOPEA, Managing Partner of Estrada & Aquino Law, Education Law expert) and Mr. Don Timothy Buhain (Chief Executive Officer, Rex Education)

In his message of gratitude, REX Chairman and President Atty. Dominador Buhain thanked all the Edukampyons and shared, “Seventy-five years, and our work is not yet done. The future demands more from us, and we accept that challenge with open hearts and minds… We vow to continue listening, learning, and innovating to provide high-quality learning solutions for every Filipino learner.”

As Rex Education looks beyond 75 years, its commitment remains—to be the trusted katuwang of every Filipino educator, school, and learner, fostering lifelong learning for generations—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan, for life.