Photo from educo.org.ph

We all remember how we celebrated teacher’s day in school: we bought cakes and flowers as gifts and we organized programs to let them know that they are appreciated.

As the world celebrated World Teacher’s Day, we also commemorate our Filipino teachers who continue to work hard to educate young Filipinos. The celebration of Teacher’s Day mainly focuses on the noble profession of teaching and highlights the role of a teacher in society.

As we give our gratitude to our dear teachers, we must also remember the current challenges of Filipino teachers today.

According to the Department of Education, the average ratio of teacher-pupil is 1:45, meaning a single teacher will have to handle a class of 45. In a school year, a teacher handles an average of 6 classes, which totals to a number of 270 students. With their commitment to give their full attention and guidance to each student, the unbearable workload makes it difficult for teachers to fulfill their mission as educators. Other than the heavy tasks given, an average Filipino teacher also suffers from underpayment. Most Filipino teachers, especially from public schools, receive low salaries that are not enough to cover all their needs since their salaries are also reduced due to taxes.

As gratitude for their sacrifices and service to our society, we then should hand in hand fight for their rights as educators. We use our stand to call our government leaders to give educators the salaries and benefits they deserve. Allotment for a bigger budget for the Department of Education is much needed by teachers and their students – especially from the rural areas.

Our Filipino teachers continue to face these problems but still remain dedicated in contributing so much in the Filipino society – which makes them our modern day heroes. Our teachers play a vital role in guiding our families, strengthening our community, and more importantly, building our nation through shaping our minds as we become rational and strong individuals.