Erosion of English Skills Threatens Growth in the Philippines

Lawmakers in the Philippines have passed a law making English the primary language of instruction from high school onward, reversing a trend that encouraged instruction in native languages. About 95 percent of Filipinos speak English, but call centers and other business run by foreign firms impose high standards. English skills declined rapidly after a 1987 law required bilingual education to promote Tagalog, according to journalist Carlos Conde in this article for “The New York Times.” With a system that offers low wages for teachers, the country also suffered a general decline in education standards. In a competitive global market, talented teachers and other workers readily find employment abroad. – YaleGlobal