By heart

Teaching English the Divine Way

...continued from page 1

Do you really think you can squeeze yourself between Aeons and Novas in the midst of this recession?

It may seem irrational and untimely to set up an English school due to the tough competition, the dwindling economy and our nationality (all teachers are Filipinas) . Being stuck in such negatives will definitely make one step back. But business is risk-taking. We explored the possibilities of either sharing the present market with them or creating our own. At first, we thought that the former is impossible and that the latter is the only realistic niche. But currently, half of our enrollees come from the giants. Some are either presently studying there or have just recently studied. But most quit there and transfered to us, when they were informed there’s a better, more effective method to learn the language. When a prospect visits DCEC, he gets briefed on the method by Mr. Sasaki, and many instantly get convinced.

Aside from method and daring, what else can you offer?

Japanese students at the Dela Cruz English Club master conversational English skills through parties and other informal groups activities under the guidance of “governesses” (the official titles of tutors).

All instructors are friendly. They’re all Filipinas (though we don’t emphasize this). Most of us are mothers. Mothers make perfect teachers. Teaching is innate and natural in them. Being amiable means we make the learners feel comfortable and secure, and let loose their inhibitions in speaking. Plus, the “undefinable magic” we call charisma and hospitality of Filipinas.

Why ‘Dela Cruz’? It’s not even your family name.

Dela Cruz, if translated in English, means “of the cross.” In other words, besides the crucifix, it also means the crossing of paths or interaction. Our company is basically the crossing of two nations. It is also one of the most common family names in our country and therefore signifies the Philippines in general.

Exactly what does a General Manager in this company do?

I share decision-making power with the president. The most strenuous and laborious aspect of my job is preparation of the curriculum, textbooks, courses, levels, titles, modes, quantity of classes, classroom atmosphere, etc. I’m grateful I have a consultant, Ms. Jocelyn Hasumi who has been teaching English in Japan for almost 18 years now. She’s an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) hired by Saitama City’s Board of Education.

In this work, is being a woman a plus or a minus?

It is hard to change the male-oriented tradition in the workplace. But lately, due to the need to globalize, some companies are already broad-minded in terms of employing women for high positions. I’m positive that this trend will be contagious on a larger scale. But I should admit that I am still not fully prepared to penetrate the “business arena”. Yes, there were times when I visited private companies to hold a presentation and I experienced some kind of prejudice (not during the presentation itself). For example, they grill me on my career history, as if not believing that I can handle the job. When our company has a settai and go out for a drink, male clients make private invitations.

Is being a Filipina a plus or a minus? How do you deal with the ‘Filipina’ stereotype in this serious, formal career of yours?

From the first contact prospective clients make through phone or personal inquiries, they’d ask, “From what countries are your teachers?”. We reply “Asians.” Then they’d reiterate, “Where in particular?”. When they learn that we are from the Philippines, a few instantly “cool off,” as if raising their eyebrows. Thanks to Mr. Sasaki, who personally attends to inquiries and persuasively explains why Filipinas are the best teachers to the Japanese. When they have one foot in and start to attend classes, they themselves realize that Filipinas really have the competence and ability. We’re not only good for night jobs.

What would you like to tell your fellow Filipina readers who would like to build a career in Japan?

Seek opportunities. For example, I make it a point to speak English wherever I go. In this way, I get personal inquiries for English tutorial at restaurants, anywhere. Continue to educate yourselves, keep abreast with trends. Use the internet. Use your right brain. Go for your dreams.*

Back to top