On May 9, 2025, the graduation ceremony for the highly successful second batch of the IELTS Preparatory Course was held at Majestic Hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This intensive five-day training program, conducted from April 11 to May 9, was a collaborative initiative between the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Filipino Club Bahrain (FCB), and the Philippine Teachers Association in Bahrain (PTAB).
More than 50 dedicated participants joined this comprehensive program, which was designed to strengthen their skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking-the four essential components of the IELTS exam. The course was expertly delivered by a team of seasoned lecturers: Dr. Arthur Basbas, Ms. Kathrina Canosa, Ms. Arlene Garcia, and Mr. Joseph Cañete, with support from co-lecturers Ms. Nadine Zarate, Mr. Jobert Camino, Mr. Clarence Nilo Serquenia Jr., and Ms. Anna Liza Valencia.
The graduation ceremony was graced by Her Excellency Ambassador Anne Jalando-on Louis, Philippine Ambassador to Bahrain, who inspired the graduates with a heartfelt message on the importance of continuous learning and perseverance. Ambassador Louis, together with Ms. Celia Cabadonga (MWO Officer) and Ms. Juvilyn Anns B. Gumabay (OWWA Welfare Officer), personally awarded certificates of completion to the participants and presented plaques of appreciation to the dedicated lecturers and partner organizations.
A special highlight of the event was the recognition of top achievers: Dr. Neil Bañez led the batch with an impressive band score of 8, followed by Anne Jelyn De Jesus with a score of 7.5, and Jasper Lorenz De Jesus with a score of 7. Dr. Bañez also delivered a moving message of appreciation, reflecting the collective gratitude of the participants.
This milestone event not only marks the successful completion of the IELTS Preparatory Course but also underscores the Filipino community’s strong commitment to personal and professional growth in Bahrain. It exemplifies the fruitful partnership between government agencies, community organizations, and educators working together to empower overseas Filipino workers.
