2024 National Teachers’ Day Celebration (Speech) 10/3/2024

Cubao, Quezon City
October 3, 2024

“To our teachers in public and private schools, Happy Teachers’ Day!… From our first steps to the classroom to our first leap of faith into the world, you teachers did not just impart the wisdom necessary for us to flourish, you have also instilled in us the values that guide us through life’s challenges. Without your dedication, we would not have a future worth celebrating,” expressed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in conveying his deep appreciation for the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the future of the nation during the 2024 National Teachers’ Day Celebration at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Speaking at the event with the theme, ‘Together4Teachers: Appreciation. Admiration. Approval. Attention,’ the President acknowledged the dedication and resilience of educators in both public and private schools across the country, extending his greetings not only to the teachers but also to First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who is a practicing lawyer and educator herself.

The Chief Executive highlighted the challenges faced by educators, including limited resources and the personal struggles of their students. He shared inspiring stories of two exceptional teachers, Kyle David Atienza and June Elias Patalinhug, whose innovative approaches have made significant differences in their student's lives.

“In my recent SONA, I emphasized that supporting teachers is one of this Administration’s key priorities. We are committed to ensuring that you have ample resources to teach —whether by additional materials, reducing non-teaching and/or reducing non-teaching responsibilities,” he assured them, outlining key measures aimed at enhancing the professional development and career advancement opportunities for over 862,000 public school teachers. Notably, he declared that no public school teacher would retire as a Teacher I, signaling a commitment to professional growth within the education sector.

Among the significant initiatives mentioned were the ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act,’ which provides a tax-free teaching allowance that will increase from PhP5,000 to PhP10,000 next year and an increase in salaries for government employees, including teachers, alongside a PhP7,000 medical allowance.

Furthermore, the Administration is ensuring fair compensation for public school teachers who exceed the prescribed teaching hours, fostering a more balanced work environment. He also emphasized the importance of safe and conducive learning environments, referencing the School Building Program that has improved facilities for educators and students alike.

Concluding his message, President Marcos Jr. called upon the Department of Education (DepEd) to continue improving educational quality and to adapt to the evolving needs of the academic landscape. He urged teachers to remain committed to shaping the future of the country, entrusting them with the vital role of preparing students for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“To our teachers: Keep shaping our students who will not only face the uncertainties of today but will also embrace the opportunities of tomorrow. Our future rests in your hands. This Administration trusts that you will help us build the Bagong Pilipinas that we all aspire to achieve,” he said in closing.

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