Teachers in Northern Mindanao were honored by the Department of Education (DepEd) and public officials for their service and dedication, and for remaining in the profession despite the challenges they face each day.
During the launch of Teachers Month over the weekend, Misamis Occidental Gov. Henry Oaminal Sr. said there are teachers who give more than what is required because a child needs it, and notice when a learner is struggling-not only academically, but personally.
“As chairperson of the Regional Development Council, I consider education not merely an investment in our schools, but an investment in the future of Northern Mindanao,” he said.
Meanwhile, Education Secretary Sonny Angara led the official nationwide launch of the 2026 National Teachers’ Month during a vibrant kickoff program here on Saturday, rallying support to honor the vital role of educators under the theme “Teacher, Ikaw Naman.”
During the event held at the Limketkai Atrium, Angara and other guest speakers extolled teachers, declaring that it is now their turn to be thanked, celebrated and prioritized.
In his keynote message, Angara expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s initiatives for the welfare of teachers.
Addressing recent school safety concerns, Angara commended teachers for their dedication and willingness to go the extra mile, reinforcing the school’s role as a nurturing environment.
“These times demand a lot from us. Hindi lang tayo tumatayong authority figures sa eskwelahan. Huwag natin kakalimutan, tayo ay tumatayong pangalawang tahanan (“We do not just stand as authority figures in school. Let us not forget, we also serve as a second home), Angara said, adding that learners often just need to feel cared for.
Amidst festive performances and heartfelt video tributes to Mindanao’s educators, the kickoff highligted teachers as the celebration’s focal point.
Highlights included the launch and unveiling of the Special Commemorative Cover by the Philippine Postal Corporation and the recognition of several exemplary educators in Mindanao, including 2026 Metrobank Foundation Most Outstanding Filipino awardee Shiela Marie Amigo of Zamboanga Sibugay and DepEd Hero Jeric Maribao of Misamis Occidental.
Corporate partner McDonald’s Philippines turned over 50 ReClassified Chairs, or school furniture repurposed from retired restaurant assets, to East City Central School in this city, along with meal donations, interactive exhibits, and raffle prizes for attendees.
The program concluded with a ceremonial launch featuring the community singing “Hawak Kamay” and a special video message from First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who expressed her gratitude to fellow educators.
“As a teacher myself, I know the sacrifices you go through. I know about the patience, dedication, and the heart to teach and inspire your students every day,” the First Lady said in her message.
Outlining key policy reforms to improve working conditions nationwide, Angara highlighted that under the Expanded Career Progression System, DepEd has already promoted more than 93,000 teachers and school heads and continues to create clearer professional pathways.
To reduce administrative stress, DepEd reduced required regular school paperwork from 174 forms to five, allowing teachers to focus on student instruction and mentorship.
Financial and medical benefits have also been expanded. Under the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, the non-taxable annual teaching allowance has doubled from PHP5,000 to PHP10,000.
Teachers now also receive an annual medical allowance of up to PHP7,000, five days of paid annual wellness leave and expanded Vacation Service Credits, capped at 30 days per year.
The National Teachers’ Month celebration runs through Oct. 5, culminating in National Teachers’ Day. (PNA)