CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, 5 September 2026— Education Secretary Sonny Angara led the official nationwide launch of the 2026 National Teachers’ Month in a vibrant kick-off program 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, Secretary 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.
“We thank President Bongbong Marcos for everything he has done for our teachers. Basta kakayanin, ibibigay ng ating Pangulo. That is also the philosophy of the Department of Education: kung ano ang makakayang ibigay natin sa ating mga guro, ibibigay natin,” Secretary Angara said.
Addressing recent school safety concerns, Secretary 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,” Angara stressed, adding that learners often just need to feel cared for.
“In this age of artificial intelligence, there will never be a substitute for a warm hug, a warm pat on the shoulder, or even saying hi and mentioning the name of our learners,” Angara added, reiterating that a whole-of-society effort is essential to support both educators and learners.
Set against a backdrop of festive performances and emotional video tributes to Mindanao’s educators, the kick-off put teachers squarely at the center of the celebration.
Highlights included the launching and unveiling of the Special Commemorative Cover by the Philippine Postal Corporation and the recognition of several exemplary educators in Mindanao, such as 2026 Metrobank Foundation Most Outstanding Filipino awardee Shiela Marie Amigo of Zamboanga Sibugay and DepEd Hero Jeric Maribao of Misamis Occidental.
Adding to the celebratory energy, teachers, along with learners, showcased their talents through cultural performances and a Bench Cheering Competition among the six regions in Mindanao, alongside interactive entertainment, a variety show, and raffle prizes.
Corporate partner McDonald’s Philippines turned over 50 ReClassified Chairs, or school furniture repurposed from retired restaurant assets, to East City Central School, alongside meal donations, interactive exhibits, and raffle prizes for attendees.
The program concluded with a ceremonial launch featuring the community singing of “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. “Thank you for your unwavering commitment in helping shape the future of our nation.”
Outlining key policy reforms aimed at improving working conditions nationwide, Angara highlighted that under the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) System, DepEd has already promoted over 93,000 teachers and school heads and continues to create clearer professional pathways.
To reduce administrative stress, DepEd slashed required regular school paperwork from 174 forms down 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 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.
Secretary Angara also expressed appreciation to key partners whose continuous support helps advance teacher welfare and educational programs nationwide. Among the acknowledged partners were Alaska Milk Corporation, BDO Foundation, BDO Network Bank, BPI Foundation, Century Pacific Group RSPo Foundation, China Bank Savings (CBS), CitySavings Bank, Colgate-Palmolive, EastWest Rural Bank, Fortune Life Insurance, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, GoTyme Bank, International Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (IPI), JA Philippines, Jollibee Group Foundation, Legazpi Savings Bank (LSB), Marylindbert International, McDonald’s Philippines, Metrobank Foundation, Malayan Savings Bank (MSB), Milo Philippines, Nestlé Philippines, Inc., Pag-IBIG Fund, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Smart Communications Inc., Sprix Inc., Crayola, STI Education Services Group, Inc., Unilab Foundation, Unilever, and PLDT Inc.
The National Teachers’ Month celebration runs through October 5, culminating in National Teachers’ Day.
About the Author
