From the Classroom to the World: My SEA Teacher Story in the Philippines

Hello everyone!

I am Thrisman Liu, a student from the Primary School Teacher Education (PGSD) program at UNDANA, and I was given the incredible opportunity to participate in the SEA Teacher Program at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) in Ilocos Norte, Philippines.

The SEA Teacher Program is a golden opportunity for aspiring educators to experience teaching abroad. I had the privilege of teaching in the Philippines, a country rich in culture with an education system worth exploring. My teaching practicum took place at MMSU Laboratory School in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. Alongside my four fellow participants—Elki, Ichad, Derrel, and Cindy—we were all assigned to this school, ready to embark on this exciting journey.

Selection, Preparation, and Departure

The selection process was conducted by UNDANA in collaboration with SEAMEO, consisting of multiple stages, including administrative screening and interviews. When I was officially selected, I couldn’t believe it! I was beyond excited yet slightly nervous, knowing that this would be my first time teaching in English in a foreign country. However, I reassured myself that I could do it.

Before departure, we underwent various preparations, including academic training and administrative arrangements. Essential documents such as travel papers, visas, and recommendation letters were prepared well in advance. Additionally, I studied the Philippine curriculum and developed my teaching materials.

The day of departure was emotional, with family and friends gathering at the airport to send me off. I was deeply grateful for their unwavering support, especially from my mother, who has always been incredibly supportive. Fun fact: this was my first time flying on an airplane and even my first time leaving Timor Island! My emotions were mixed, but I remained determined.

Our journey started at El Tari Airport in Kupang, transiting through Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali before continuing to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. From there, we took another flight to Laoag City, the home of Mariano Marcos State University. The entire journey took nearly two days—exhausting yet thrilling at the same time.

First Day in the Philippines

We arrived in Laoag City around 9 PM and were warmly welcomed by the university staff who had been waiting for us. Our first stop? A famous Filipino fast-food chain—Jollibee! It was my first time trying it, and I absolutely loved it.

After dinner, we were taken to the dormitory, where we met Ma’am Risa, the dorm mother. She welcomed us with great warmth, making us feel at home despite being in a new country.

That night, we also met fellow Indonesian SEA Teacher participants who had arrived two days earlier. I went to bed feeling grateful and eager to explore more of this new environment.

Mariano Marcos State University.

Established on January 6, 1978, MMSU was founded through Presidential Decree No. 1279 issued by President Ferdinand E. Marcos. The university resulted from the merger of the Mariano Marcos Memorial College of Science and Technology (MMMCST) in Batac and the Northern Luzon State College (NLSC) in Laoag, along with the integration of departments from the Ilocos Norte Agricultural College (INAC) and the Ilocos Norte College of Arts and Trades (INCAT).

Mandate & Campuses

MMSU is committed to providing advanced education in the arts, agricultural and natural sciences, technology, and professional fields. The 300-hectare main campus is located in Batac, with additional campuses in Laoag, Currimao, and Dingras.

The university offers 66 undergraduate and graduate programs, many of which are accredited at various levels. MMSU is recognized as a Center of Excellence (COE) in Teacher Education and a Center of Development (COD) in Agriculture, Biology, Forestry, and Information Technology. Additionally, it is one of the National Universities for Agriculture and Fisheries Education in the Philippines.

Academic Structure

MMSU consists of 11 academic units, spread across 6 campuses:

Main Campus (Batac): Law, Medicine, Agriculture, Sciences, Engineering, Business & Economics, Health Sciences
Campus 2 & 3 (Laoag): Teacher Education, Graduate School, Industrial Technology
Campus 4 (Currimao): Aquatic Sciences & Applied Technology
Campus 5 & 6 (Dingras & Paoay): Satellite campuses for Agriculture & Industrial Technology

Vision & Mission

Vision: To become a premier Philippine university by 2028.

Mission: To develop virtuous human capital and sustainable innovations in a knowledge-driven global economy.

Teaching Experience at MMSU Laboratory School

I was assigned to MMSU Laboratory School for Elementary Education, a well-equipped school with a conducive learning environment. The classrooms had air conditioning, smart TVs, LCD projectors, whiteboards, bulletin boards, and even water dispensers. Such facilities made teaching and learning more effective.

Observation Period

During my first week, I observed two classes:

Grade IV-Matiyaga (Science Class), under the guidance of Ma’am Alona and student teachers Shane, Trixie, Christine and Kyle.
Grade VI-Mapaglingkod (English Class), where I worked with Sir Seymor and student teacher Vhera.

One of the most remarkable things I noticed was that English was the primary language used by students. It was impressive to see young learners so fluent in English—something quite rare in Indonesia, especially in my hometown.

In terms of teaching strategies, I observed that the methods were quite similar to those in Indonesia. The lecture method was commonly used, often supported by conventional teaching aids rather than IT-based media. However, some teachers blended both traditional and modern teaching tools for more effective learning.

Another significant difference was the school schedule. In Indonesia, school hours typically run from 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM, with only 2-4 subjects taught per day in long periods. At MMSU, however, classes run from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM (sometimes until 4:20 PM), covering all subjects in one day but with shorter class durations (maximum 45 minutes per subject). Additionally, hands-on activities were common, particularly in Science classes, where students conducted outdoor experiments related to topics such as speed, distance, and time.

My Teaching Experience

After the observation period, I began preparing my lesson plans with the help of student teachers. I was assigned to teach Grade VI English, focusing on verbs. To facilitate learning, I used PowerPoint presentations and employed a contextual teaching approach. My strategy closely followed what I had observed earlier, incorporating a reward system where students who answered correctly received small prizes.

At first, I was nervous—after all, my resource teacher, fellow student teachers, and other faculty members were observing my demo teaching. However, as the lesson progressed, I became more comfortable and engaged with my students. Their enthusiasm was contagious! The students were eager to participate, actively answering questions, and showcasing their impressive English proficiency.

One of the biggest challenges was the language barrier. Although the students were fluent in English, I had to work extra hard to create an engaging classroom atmosphere using a language that wasn’t my mother tongue. However, with the right approach, communication became smooth, and I felt a strong connection with my students.

Interestingly, they were very curious about Indonesia—especially Bali! Many of them expressed a desire to visit one day.

Beyond the Classroom: Exploring Ilocos Norte and Beyond

Teaching is my passion, but my journey in the Philippines has been so much more than just classroom experiences. I have participated in A LOT of activities, each providing me with new perspectives on culture, traditions, and breathtaking historical sites in Ilocos Norte. Throughout my stay, I embarked on numerous study tours, immersing myself in the beauty and history of this incredible region.

Military Park Camp Bojeador

Our first study tour took us to Military Park Camp Bojeador, a former military camp that has been transformed into a historical site. This place showcases decommissioned war equipment and serves as a tribute to the Filipino struggle against colonial rule.

One of the most unforgettable moments here was experiencing the powerful winds—so strong that we had to lean into them as we walked, laughing and shouting just to hear each other! HAHAHA

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Next, I visited Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, an old lighthouse now serving as a popular tourist attraction.

Perched on a high cliff, the location offers a panoramic view of the vast ocean. I was captivated by the remnants of Spanish colonial rule found here. The souvenir shops nearby were filled with unique, charming items that made for perfect keepsakes.

Pagudpud Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever visited, Pagudpud Beach boasts pristine white sand and towering waves. Just like at Military Park Camp Bojeador, the wind here was relentless, making for a thrilling experience. I ran across the fine, soft sand, feeling completely at peace with nature.

Bangui Windmills

Seeing wind turbines up close for the first time was mind-blowing! The towering structures of the Bangui Windmills left me in awe.

These turbines are not just for show—they generate a significant amount of electricity for Ilocos Norte. However, the intense wind carried grains of sand that stung my skin! Taking a photo while being pelted by a sandstorm? Challenge accepted! My friends and I couldn’t stop laughing at how wild the wind was.

18 North Cafe

After an adventurous day, we stopped by 18 North Cafe, a must-visit spot in Pagudpud. With its aesthetic charm and strategic location, it attracts many tourists. That day alone, I made countless unforgettable memories.

National Museum, Ilocos Sur

Our next study tour took us to Ilocos Sur, where we explored the National Museum. This museum holds an extensive collection of historical and cultural artifacts. I was particularly amazed by the paintings depicting the Filipino resistance against colonial rule. The most surprising moment? Discovering a photograph of Indonesia’s first president, Ir. Soekarno, alongside a former Philippine president! It was a powerful reminder of the strong ties between our nations.

Hidden Garden

In Ilocos Sur, I visited the Hidden Garden, a charming and aesthetic cafe that truly lives up to its name. From the outside, it appears unassuming, but once inside, you are transported to a lush, nature-inspired retreat with beautiful floral displays, misty fountains, and artistic sculptures.

Vigan City

Stepping into Vigan City felt like traveling back in time. The well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets were mesmerizing. The city is filled with vibrant souvenir shops, and I even had the chance to ride a Calesa, a traditional horse-drawn carriage. Although I was slightly nervous at first, the ride turned out to be an exhilarating experience and an unforgettable memory.

Malacañang of the North

Visiting Malacañang of the North was a fascinating experience. Once the northern residence of President Ferdinand Marcos, this grand mansion, built in 1977, blends Spanish colonial and traditional Filipino architecture. Now a museum, it offers a deep dive into the political history of the Marcos era.

The Pamulinawen Festival

Attending the Pamulinawen Festival in Laoag City was an explosion of culture and energy! The festival, held every February 10, honors St. William the Hermit, the city's patron saint. From extravagant street dances to vibrant music performances, the passion of the dancers was truly inspiring. They danced non-stop, smiling through every move.

Tan-Ok Festival

One of the grandest festivals I attended was the Tan-Ok Festival, held at Marcos Stadium. The performances were breathtaking, with dazzling props and massive choreographed routines. "Tan-Ok" means "excellence" in Ilocano, and this event truly lived up to its name.

The entire stadium was packed, and I screamed in excitement as I watched the incredible performances unfold.

Star Fest in Bacarra

At the Star Fest hosted by the Science Teacher Academy for Regions, I had a blast engaging in hands-on science experiments. The event featured interactive exhibits in IT, math, and physics, all free to try! It was an amazing experience for any science enthusiast.

Aurora Park & Night Market

Aurora Park in Laoag City transforms into a vibrant night market, selling a variety of Ilocano delicacies and international food. This quickly became my go-to spot for late-night snacks with friends. Another highlight was the annual night carnival, where I braved the haunted train ride and the extreme spinning swing, both terrifying and exhilarating at the same time!

SCUAA Opening Ceremony

One of the most unforgettable moments of my journey was witnessing the State Universities and Colleges Athletic Association (SCUAA) Region I 2025 and PASUC Cultural and Arts Festival. Held from February 24–28, 2025, at Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium, the opening ceremony left me speechless! The choreography was on another level, featuring a paper mob performance and stunning light shows.

The entire stadium erupted with energy, and I found myself screaming in excitement, especially when they danced to "APT" by Rose & Bruno Mars!, such a great experience.

Filipino Traditional Folk Dance Competition

I also had the privilege of watching the Filipino Traditional Folk Dance Competition at SCUAA, where five universities competed under strict guidelines, no additional moves allowed! The performances were incredibly precise and mesmerizing.

MMSU Main Campus Visit

I had the chance to visit the main campus of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) in Batac City and meet the University President, Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr., Ph.D. We exchanged stories about education and culture in Indonesia. The campus architecture, influenced by old Spanish styles, added a touch of historical charm.

Paoay Church

Visiting Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a surreal experience. Built in 1694, it stands as one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. At first glance, it appeared abandoned, but upon stepping inside, I was amazed to see it still in use for worship today, it’s really a miracle.

Mang Inasal: A Taste of the Philippines

I couldn’t leave the Philippines without indulging in Mang Inasal, a popular Filipino restaurant chain. My go-to order? Chicken Inasal and pork, a flavor I had never encountered in Indonesia.

And of course, I had to try Halo-Halo, a dessert similar to Indonesian Es Campur but with an even richer variety of fruits.

MMSU Elementary Lab School

Every day, I spent my time at MMSU Elementary Lab School, located just across from the College of Teacher Education (CTE). Here, I interacted with students, teachers, and even professors from CTE, as the campus is shared with the Lab High School. The lush green surroundings of CTE became one of my favorite aspects of this place. The students at the Lab School were incredibly friendly, the teachers were welcoming, and even the university students at CTE made me feel at home.

Empanada – A Unique Delicacy

One of the most unforgettable culinary experiences in Ilocos Norte was trying their famous Empanada. This dish, filled with egg, vegetables, and noodles, wrapped in an orange-colored dough, and deep-fried, was something entirely new to me. During our visit to the main campus in Batac City, we were treated to this local delicacy, and it quickly became one of my favorite snacks.

Life at the Dorm

The dorm was my home throughout my stay in the Philippines. We were placed in the international wing, specifically designated for international students. Here, I met fellow SEA Teacher participants from Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto and PGRI Yogyakarta. Our time in the dorm was filled with unforgettable memories—cooking together, sharing meals, laughing, and experiencing countless fun moments. We were also joined by students from China pursuing their Master's and Doctoral degrees at MMSU, adding to the cultural diversity of our living space.

A Sunset at Fort Ilocanja

One of the most beautiful places I visited was Fort Ilocanja, a breathtaking beach where my friends and I watched the sunset while enjoying pizza and sharing stories. Initially, we had planned to swim, but the high waves changed our minds. Instead, we spent the evening relaxing by the shore, enjoying the serene atmosphere until nightfall before heading back to the dorm.

The Unique Tricycle Experience

Public transportation in Ilocos Norte is quite different from what I was used to in Indonesia. The tricycle, a three-wheeled vehicle, is a common mode of transport here. It reminded me of ojek in Indonesia but with an extra wheel. The fare varies—20 PHP for adults, 15 PHP for students, and 10 PHP for children. My first ride in a tricycle was both amusing and exciting. Throughout our stay, we relied on this mode of transport to get around Laoag City.

The Farewell Party – A Bittersweet Ending

And here it was, the saddest yet most beautiful part of my journey, the farewell party. We had the opportunity to express our feelings and share our experiences from the past month in the Philippines. Each university performed a traditional Indonesian dance; my group from Undana presented Ja'i Bajawa, a traditional dance from Nusa Tenggara Timur, while our friends from UMP and PGRI Yogyakarta showcased dances and international games from Java.

We also listened to heartfelt speeches from the Dean of CTE, the Head of IRO MMSU, and other officials who expressed their gratitude for our presence. They acknowledged the cultural exchange that took place and even invited us to return in the future, perhaps for further studies. This farewell party was more than just an event; it was a celebration of memories, friendships, and the incredible journey we had embarked on together.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

The SEA Teacher program has been an invaluable experience, teaching me numerous life lessons:

Adapting to a New Environment

Living in a different country meant adjusting to cultural differences, educational systems, and daily habits. However, I adapted quickly, allowing me to gain new perspectives on both culture and education.

Enhancing My Teaching Skills

Through observations, guidance, and my demo teaching sessions, I significantly improved my teaching abilities, classroom management, and student engagement. Teaching in English was a unique challenge, but it pushed me to grow as an educator.

Embracing Cultural Diversity

Experiencing Filipino culture firsthand taught me the importance of being open-minded and appreciative of different traditions. As people say, we should widen our horizons and not limit our understanding to our own country alone.

Heartfelt Gratitude

With great warmth, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who made this journey possible:

To the Undana Leadership, including the Rector and Vice Rectors, thank you for granting me this incredible opportunity.

To the International Relations Office (IRO) Team, thank you to the Head of IRO, Ibu Dewi, Ibu Zyntia, and Ibu Zantty for working tirelessly to ensure the success of this program.

To the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) Team, including the Dean, Vice Deans, and the staff, thank you for your guidance and support.

To the Elementary Teacher Education Study Program Team, especially the Head of the Program and all the lecturers, thank you for your endless support throughout this journey.

To my family and friends, especially my beloved Liu family, my parents, and siblings, thank you for your unwavering encouragement.

To my mentors at MMSU, Prof. Fe Erlinda Ibalio, Prof. Jaenette G. Dials, and Sir Mark Joseph Deblois Pastor, thank you for your support and patience with us, for taking us to great places, introducing us to wonderful people, and always taking care of us. Thank you for always listening to our concerns.

To Mr. Seymor S. Ridon, my resource teacher, thank you for always helping me and guiding me so well until I completed my demo teaching.

To the teachers and student teachers at Class IV-Matiyaga, thank you for welcoming me into your class and making my time there unforgettable. Ma’am Alona, even though you were not my official Resource Teacher, you were a great guide. Shane, Trixie, Christine, and Kyle, thank you for creating so many wonderful memories together. I will always remember the fun we had listening to Zack Tabudlo's playlist, especially "Pano," which will always remind me of our time in class. Thanks for everything, from build a buletin, going to Mang Inasal, have some fun at Valentine’s Day and going to watching SCUAA together. Shane, thank you for always answering my questions. Trixie, you’re such a creative leader with amazing teaching skills. Kyle, your stories and laughter always brightened our time together. Christine, thank you for your help and joy. Even though you’re now at a public school for your internship, I will never forget our time together. I wish you all the best for your studies and Licensure Exams. I hope we can meet again in the future, agyaman!

To the students of Class IV-Matiyaga, you have become an important part of my teaching journey. We’ve shared so many memories, and you are all so cheerful and friendly. I’m truly happy that you accepted me into your class in such an incredible way. I care about you all deeply, and I hope you grow up to be amazing leaders in the future.

To my friends and buddies, GG, Dawn, and Dyan, thank you for always being there to accompany us wherever and whenever. GG, thank you for always answering my questions about the Philippines and its culture, and for helping us so selflessly. Dawn, thank you for being such a good friend and always helping me. Dyan, even though you weren't with us from the start, your help has meant a lot to me. Thank you so much to all three of you. Also, thank you to Carl, Kyll, Lyan, Alex, and Frances, my friends from High School Laboratory. Even though we only met a few times, we shared some truly valuable experiences. Thank you all very much.

To the dorm staff and our Chinese friends, Ma’am Risa and the dorm staff, thank you for making our stay comfortable. To our Chinese dormmates, even though we didn’t talk much, I appreciate your kindness and companionship.

To the Undana SEA Teacher Team, thank you, Elki, Derrel, Richard, and Cindy. Elki, you are the smartest in the group, a problem solver, and a great leader who’s obsessed with "dad jokes" and friendly to everyone. Derrel, you love telling stories, and your unbelievably loud and funny laugh always brightened the atmosphere, always coming up with punchlines that are out of this world. Richard, also known as "the crying boy," you were our incredible photographer and editor, capturing every moment. Cindy, the one and only girl, you always made us breakfast when we were still dreaming and completed our group. Thank you for being such great friends and partners throughout this journey. I hope we stay in touch, and I wish you all the best for your future.

Finally, to my friends from Java—Arjun, Fifi, Ayun, Kuntum, and Ayya—our friendship grew despite our cultural and language differences. Thank you for the laughter, the shared experiences, and the unforgettable memories, i hope you guys can really come to Kupang, i’ll wait for you guys, i hope we stay in touch, thankyou guys.

Until We Meet Again

With a heart full of gratitude, I thank everyone who has been part of this journey, those mentioned and those unmentioned. You have all left a lasting mark on my life, and I will treasure these memories forever.

I hope that one day, we will reunite in a place destined by fate. This is not goodbye, it is merely see you later. Until then, I will hold onto these memories and look forward to the day our paths cross again. Thank you for the joy, the laughter, and the invaluable experiences. Wishing all of you the best for the future!

Thank you,

Maraming Salamat,

Agyaman,

Terima kasih.