Teachers play a crucial role in national competitiveness. It is no
coincidence that the quality of the Philippine education started deteriorating
with the exodus of public school teachers for better paying jobs overseas. Many
preferred to work as nannies abroad rather than teach in their own country.
Because of the work involved and modest pay, teaching in the Philippine
entails sacrifice and dedication to service. In certain cases, teachers play a
greater role than parents in preparing a child for life’s challenges. It is
little wonder that the first Filipino to be honored as an international hero by
CNN was a teacher, Who brought education to the extremely poor on a cart
laden with learning materials.They have been held hostage, raped and
decapitated by terrorists. And yet schools continue to operate in these
conflict Zones, with teachers prepared to place their lives on the line knowing
that these are the most needed.
Dedicated teachers deserve the nation’s
gratitude, not just during September which is the special month for mentors but
every day.
