By: Princess Marceline C. Inigo

Pasay City West High School in the Philippines recently held a grand celebration in honor of its dedicated teachers during the school’s National Teacher’s Month celebration. The highly anticipated event took place on October 7, 2022, at 7:00 am in the school gymnasium.

Themed “Gurong Pilipino, Dangal ng Sambayanang Pilipino” (Filipino Teachers, Pride of the Filipino Nation), the ceremony focused on recognizing and appreciating the exceptional contributions of the school’s outstanding and experienced educators. The much-awaited announcement of the winners for the Natatanging Kawani (Outstanding Employee) and Natatanging Guro (Outstanding Teacher) awards added an extra touch of excitement to the celebration.

Edicer V. Mansanero was hailed as the Natatanging Kawani, while Eva E. Sabarillo was honored as the Natatanging Taga-Patnubay (Outstanding Support Staff). The distinguished title of Natatanging Guro (Outstanding Teacher) was bestowed upon Erlinda G. Cunanan for Filipino, Myrna Pantoja for English, Digna De Leon for Math, Rosalina Del Villar for Science, Susana Cunanan for Araling Panlipunan (Social Studies), Rodolfo Ching for Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (Values Education), and Evelyn Aguilar for MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health).

Mr. Peter R. Cannon, Jr., the esteemed school principal, delivered an inspiring opening speech expressing heartfelt gratitude to the teachers, acknowledging the challenges they face every day. “Mahirap maging teacher,” he empathetically stated, recognizing the demanding nature of their profession. Mr. Cannon further highlighted that the school had been unable to hold face-to-face celebrations for Teacher’s Day over the past two years. He humorously added, “Ngayon lang ulit nagkaroon ng teachers’ day. Dati Virtual. Gusto ko maging memorable” (We only had Teacher’s Day now. It used to be virtual. I want it to be memorable).

Approximately 200 participants, including teachers, school administrators, faculty club officers, members of the General Parents-Teachers Association (GPTA), and a select group of students, attended the prestigious event. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, Mr. Reynante S. Panlaqui, the president of the school’s faculty club, emphasized the significance of not forgetting to celebrate amidst the adversities. “Kahit pandemya, hindi natin makakalimutan ang celebration,” he remarked, encouraging the teachers to cherish the moment. “This day is for you. Enjoy, sit back, and relax. Dahil sa Lunes, simula na naman ang challenge sa pagtuturo” (Because come Monday, the challenge of teaching begins again).

During the program, the teachers were pleasantly surprised with a complimentary electrocardiogram (ECG) test sponsored by the PCWHS Gender and Development (GAD) committee, ensuring their well-being was a top priority. Additionally, a heartfelt thanksgiving mass was offered as a gesture of gratitude for their unwavering commitment to shaping young minds.

Pasay City West High School’s celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the immeasurable value teachers bring to society. The event not only recognized their tireless efforts but also fostered a sense of unity and appreciation among the entire school community.