If you’ve been following the columns in our opinion section, several of our columnists have expressed their respect, appreciation, and admiration for teachers. They have reflected on their teachers from their formative years, those who challenged them to excel, those who uncovered their talents, to teachers who supported them through their doctoral studies.
The power of a teacher, often regarded as a “second parent,” stems from the profound influence they exert in our lives, so much so that even if one is already a professional, one can’t help but recall the numerous lessons imparted inside a classroom.
As we conclude National Teachers’ Month, which formally started on Sept. 5, 2023, and culminated on Oct. 5, or the National Teachers’ Day and World Teachers’ Day, we find ourselves highlighting the indispensable role of teachers in our society, particularly now in the ongoing battle against the learning crisis that plagued our nation due to the health pandemic.
During those challenging years, teachers have displayed unwavering resilience and grit, adapting to new circumstances, and going above and beyond to ensure that students continue to learn. Despite their own personal trials at home, teachers have presented a brave face — fully aware that they are looked upon by young minds for inspiration and hope. It is, for these reasons, that they are considered the heroes of our times.
On National Teachers’ Day, the President assured teachers of his administration’s unwavering support, acknowledging the “immeasurable debt” the country owes them. “We recognize your sacrifices for our youth and assure you that we will prioritize your welfare and that of your families,” Marcos said.
At the start of National Teachers’ Month, Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte committed to improve the welfare of teachers, anchored on the MATATAG Agenda.
“The DepEd’s MATATAG Agenda is not just a slogan. It is our roadmap to institutionalize reforms within the department. This includes the protection of your rights and the promotion of your welfare,” Duterte said.
For one, to improve teachers’ financial capacity, Duterte said that the department is coordinating with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) to address concerns over accrued interests or arrears of teachers’ loans. Add to that, she also announced that after the current school year, DepEd will give 30 days of uninterrupted rest to teachers to recover from school tasks.
On the part of the Senate, there are efforts underway to update Republic Act No. 4670 or the “Magna Carta for Public School Teachers.” Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who chairs the Committee on Basic Education, said that it has been 57 years since the law was passed, “yet some of its provisions have not been fully realized.”
“It is high time that the Magna Carta should respond to the needs and challenges being encountered by our teachers,” the Senator said, noting that he also seeks provisions “protecting teachers from out-of-pocket expenses and non-teaching tasks, and provisions for teachers’ basic rights and longevity pay.”
While National Teachers' Month may conclude, our consideration for teachers' welfare must remain constant. Their work is not only during teaching hours, since for them, the teaching profession is not just a career but their life and legacy. All efforts to lift any ounce of burden on them should be welcomed and must be supported by all. After all, aren’t we what we are today because of our teachers?
