MORE than 4,000 teaching and nonteaching personnel gathered for the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Iligan City’s annual convergence in celebration of World Teachers’ Day at the Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) gym on Monday, Oct. 6.
The event, which honors educators for their service, coincided with the National Teachers’ Month celebration held nationwide from Sept. 5 to Oct. 5, as mandated by law, said Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Myra Mebato.
“Here in Iligan, we celebrate it every Oct. 6 depending on the availability of the MSU-IIT gym, since it can accommodate our large crowd,” Mebato said.
She added: “It’s our way of giving recognition and appreciation to our teachers who have sacrificed so much — often using their own resources to prepare classrooms and support their learners.”
Aga Cristy A. Dologmandin of Iligan City National High School expressed gratitude for the recognition and the local government’s continued support.
“Being a teacher for 20 years, I feel honored, delighted, and overwhelmed that DepEd values its teachers in Iligan City. The support extended by our LGU led by Mayor Frederick Siao truly warms our hearts,” she said.
Siao said the city government doubled the teachers’ incentive this year from P3,000 to P6,000.
“Kay ang mga magtutudlo dapat gyud mabati nga sila gihatagan ug importansiya,” he said.
The mayor said the budget comes from the Special Education Fund (SEF) and can be used for research materials and other teaching needs.
“This may be simple, but it is our way of saying that we see your sacrifices, we honor your effort, and we want to lighten your load,” Siao said.
“As your mayor, I want every teacher in Iligan to feel that you are not alone in this journey.”
The celebration featured performances showcasing teachers’ talents and the first-ever DepEd Iligan Ambassador competition. Educators who have served at least 25 years were also recognized.
Mebato encouraged teachers to continue supporting government education programs and serving as role models.
“At saka let us be models of good character. And sana huwag tayong mapagod sa pagtuturo sa mga bata dahil ang bukas nila ay nakasalalay sa ating mga kamay,” she said.
“To our learners — study hard. Education is the only treasure that cannot be stolen from you. Money and wealth can be lost, but knowledge will stay with you forever,” Mebato added.
