MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday challenged teachers to go beyond academic instruction and help mold Filipinos who can think critically, act on principle and uphold the common good, underscoring educators’ role in shaping not only students but the country’s future.
In his National Teachers’ Day message, Marcos said teachers wield an influence that extends far beyond the classroom as they help determine the kind of citizens and society the Philippines will have in the years ahead.
“I call on our teachers to continue forming Filipinos who are discerning in thought, principled in action, and mindful of the common good,” he said.
Marcos described classrooms as foundations of the country’s future, where students develop their capacity to think, explore and pursue their aspirations.
“Every classroom carries within it the promise of our country’s future. It is where young minds learn to question, discover, and dream of what they may one day achieve,” Marcos said.
He said educators are at the center of this responsibility because their work extends beyond imparting lessons to helping young Filipinos recognize their potential.
“At the heart of this noble mission are our educators, whose task is to unleash our people’s potential and guide them towards greater possibilities in life. Their influence extends far beyond the lessons they impart. By helping children realize what they can become, they also help shape the kind of society we can build,” he added.
The President also acknowledged the sacrifices demanded by the teaching profession and stressed the shared responsibility of government and society to provide educators with an environment that allows them to perform their work effectively.
“On this occasion, we recognize the sacrifices that accompany this profession and reaffirm our shared responsibility to cherish and uplift those who shape our lives. May this celebration also renew our appreciation for their role in advancing Philippine education as well as encourage us to work together in creating an environment where every educator can teach with purpose and every Filipino learner can pursue knowledge with confidence and optimism,” the President said.
Marcos said his administration would continue working with educators as the education system responds to changing demands and prepares students for future challenges.
“This administration is one with you in meeting the changing demands of education and equipping our schools for the challenges of the next generation. Rest assured, this government stands with our educators and nurtures a Bagong Pilipinas where every teacher is given the power to become a source of hope and strength for our children and nation,” he said.
He concluded his message by emphasizing the lasting influence educators have on generations of Filipinos.
“To all our teachers, may the lives you touch remain your greatest legacy to the Filipino people,” Marcos added./PN
