Over 4,000 personnel from the Schools Division Office of Calamba City gathered to celebrate National Teachers’ Day during the 2024 Division Research Festival, themed “Showcasing Best Practices in Raising the Bar of Excellence” and Culminating Activity of the National Teachers’ Month Celebration at the Jose Rizal Coliseum on October 3, 2024.

 

In his address, Hon. Mayor Roseller “Ross” H. Rizal warmly greeted the teachers and acknowledged their important contributions to the community. He shared that his grandmother and aunts were also teachers, which deepened his appreciation for the profession.

 

Mayor Rizal praised their dedication, noting that, like all teachers, they worked with love and commitment to their learners. He expressed admiration for the tireless efforts of educators and emphasized their vital role in inspiring young generations.

 

In her message, SDS Merthel M. Evardome, CESO V, announced that teachers would receive their Performance-Based Bonus, bringing smiles to their faces. She also shared that each teacher would get PHP 1,000 from the Department of Education and another PHP 1,000 from the City Government of Calamba.

 

SDS Evardome warmly wished everyone, “Happy Teachers’ Day!” and highlighted the crucial role teachers play in shaping the future of learners and society.

 

In her keynote address, Ma. Christina O. Bauyon, a Gawad Patnugot Stage 2 Qualifier for Outstanding Researcher from Bunggo Elementary School, highlighted the important role of research in education, especially in discovering new ways to help learners.

 

Bauyon encouraged fellow educators to focus not just on the research process but on using the findings to improve classroom strategies and learning outcomes.

 

“Research is not just about the process—it’s about what you do with your findings,” Bauyon said. She shared her journey as a teacher-researcher, talking about the challenges she faced and how they taught her resilience.

 

The Inner Voices band performed, enhancing the lively atmosphere and making the event memorable for all educators. Comedian Pepita Curtis, from The Boobay and Tekla Show, entertained the crowd, adding laughter and joy to the celebration.

 

The celebration featured over 1 million pesos worth of cash giveaways and raffle prizes, generously donated by local government officials to show their appreciation for the teachers’ dedication and hard work.

 

By Rocky A. Dela Cruz