MESSAGE ON WORLD TEACHERS' DAY

As we celebrate World Teachers' Day, let us thank and show our appreciation to our dedicated teachers for their crucial role in nurturing the hope for a better future.

For literally going the extra mile, crossing rivers and mountains to get to their students, sometimes in makeshift classrooms under a tree, Filipino teachers are the embodiment of hard work and sacrifice. They make the best out of whatever little they have. Despite low salaries and lack of supplies, they continue to persevere and dedicate all their efforts to provide quality education.

As they say, being a teacher is a thankless job. They do not ask much in return, except to see their students learn and become skilled, honest contributing members of society.

As the Greek poet Nikos Kazantzakis said: "True teachers use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create bridges of their own."

As a former law professor, it gives me great pride and joy whenever former law students of mine come up to me and tell me they are now lawyers, pursuing our shared causes of upholding justice and the rule of law.

Indeed, more than imparting knowledge that prepares students for their chosen careers, teachers play a very crucial role in instilling early on a clear sense of what is right and wrong among our youth; fortifying their knowledge with values that should never be lost on future generations.

To our beloved teachers: Rest assured that as Senator, I will continue to push for reforms and measures that will address your needs, and lessen your burden from the way you painstakingly fulfill your work.

There is no doubt that with our solidarity and compassion for one another, we can strengthen the foundation of a better life for our teachers, for our children, and the Filipino nation.

Muli, isang taos-pusong pasasalamat po sa ating mga minamahal na guro!

Mabuhay ang ating mga huwarang guro!

LEILA M. DE LIMA

PNP Custodial Center, Camp Crame

5 October 2019