Today, October 4, we honor and thank all teachers, and join the rest of the world in celebrating Teachers’ Day.   

It is a good time to reflect on the important role of teachers in our life – – our parents who are our first teachers at home, our teachers who teach us subjects in school, our mentors who share their wisdom and expertise as we navigate through our careers and journey through our lives.  We toast the teachers’ valiant efforts just to teach children to read or do their math.  They put in long hours, endure low and delayed salaries, cross rivers or travel several towns just to be able to teach.  We recognize teachers who are at the heart in the fight for creating global education with the target of leaving no one behind.  Amidst the pandemic, teachers are at the forefront of protecting education by taking the helm and continuing their lessons for the sake of every student.  The contributions they make to provide remote learning, support vulnerable populations, support modular and blended learning, re-open schools, and ensure that learning gaps are mitigated have been inspiring and heart-warming.   Our parent-teachers are amazing as they take on a huge responsibility under distance learning just to make sure there is continuity of learning for their children.  

In appreciation for our teachers, Surigao Del Norte Vice Mayor Alfredo Coro sent a special message:  “Thank you to all the teachers for all your efforts and sacrifices for the youth, the hope of the nation. You are the reason why we are here now continuing our service in both the public and private sectors.”   Cagayan de Oro Mayo Oscar Moreno recognized that “It is through teaching that you make a better society of tomorrow.”   Mayor Francis Fontanilla of Bacnotan, La Union thanked the teachers for their “selfless service and dedication to our children.”  One of Synergeia’s program officers, Monch Aldana, said “It is important to show gratitude to teachers and remember how teachers have played a vital role in shaping our lives and minds.”   Program officer Edwin Nacionales’ simple greeting says it all, “Happy Teachers’ Day!”   As one student aptly said, our teachers are indeed our super heroes!