EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara officially launched the nationwide celebration of the 2026 National Teachers’ Month on Saturday, September 5, at the Limketkai Atrium, rallying public support under the theme “Teacher, Ikaw Naman.”
The event centered on honoring the essential role of educators while highlighting major welfare policy reforms enacted by the Department of Education (DepEd) in collaboration with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“We thank President Bongbong Marcos for everything he has done for our teachers,” Secretary Angara stated during his keynote address. “That is also the philosophy of the Department of Education: kung ano ang makakayang ibigay natin sa ating mga guro, ibibigay natin.”
Addressing modern classroom challenges, Angara emphasized the irreplaceable human connection teachers provide to students, noting that even in an age of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, nothing replaces a teacher’s personal warmth, care, and mentorship.
To improve working conditions, DepEd highlighted several key reforms:
- Career Progression: Over 93,000 teachers and school heads have been promoted under the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) System to establish clear professional pathways.
- Reduced Administrative Burden: Mandatory regular school paperwork has been drastically reduced from 174 forms down to just five, allowing educators to focus primarily on teaching.
- Expanded Benefits: Through the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, the annual non-taxable teaching allowance doubled from ₱5,000 to ₱10,000. Teachers also receive an annual medical allowance of up to ₱7,000, five days of paid wellness leave, and expanded Vacation Service Credits capped at 30 days annually.
The Mindanao kick-off featured cultural performances, a Bench Cheering Competition, and the unveiling of a Special Commemorative Cover by the Philippine Postal Corporation.
Exceptional regional educators were honored, including 2026 Metrobank Foundation awardee Shiela Marie Amigo and DepEd Hero Jeric Maribao.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos also delivered a video tribute thanking educators for their dedication.
National Teachers’ Month activities will continue across the country through October 5, culminating on World Teachers’ Day.