Comparative Study on The Experiences of Selected Filipino Early Childhood Teachers in Thailand and Singapore: Basis for Pre-Departure Training Program

This study investigated and compared the lived experiences of selected Filipino early childhood teachers working in Thailand and Singapore, with the aim of identifying key challenges, including cultural and personal opportunities, and adaptive strategies to inform the development of a pre-departure training program. Using a quantitative comparative research design, data were collected via Likert-scale questionnaires. The findings revealed that the two countries share similarities and differences in cultural adaptation, workplace expectations, communication barriers, professional growth, and support systems. Teachers in Thailand highlighted challenges related to language differences and classroom management, while those in Singapore emphasized high professional standards and structured educational systems. Despite these gaps, participants from both groups demonstrated strong commitment to their profession. Future teachers, recruitment agencies, schools, and educational stakeholders must create training programs for Filipino educators who wish to work abroad to prepare them and make them aware of expectations regarding their work, compensation packages, the culture of their host country, and social norms. This research contributed to the limited body of literature on Filipino teachers overseas and provides practical insights for policymakers, training institutions, and prospective migrant educators.