John Clements Rolls out Speak English Campaign
by Paul Catiang

The English usage in the Philippines is in a sorry state: it only enjoys a proficiency rate of 1 to 3 per cent among college graduates—the primary reason for low acceptance rates in call centers—and while it is recognized as the medium of instruction in most colleges and universities, it is equally acceptable to use Filipino in other subjects. Moreover, English usage rarely finds itself outside of the classroom.

With these facts in mind, John Clements decided to reverse the trend by starting within its own doors with the launch of its Speak English campaign. Beginning November 21, 2005, Basement 1 and all the conference rooms of the Executive Office, EDI-Staffbuilders, the Executive Search and Selection Division, and Staffbuilders Asia are to be English-only zones. The use of Pilipino or Taglish will be fined PhP 10 per violation, and this will be enforced by the executive assistant and all division secretaries.

A poster campaign is also included, with posters designed by graphics artist Bernard Cabebe Jr., exhorting and reminding the people of John Clements of the necessity of using the English language.