President Marcos has expressed his admiration for teachers as he cited their indispensable role in imparting excellence and preserving the country's democratic values, especially with the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.

In his message for the celebration of National Teachers' Day on Saturday, Oct.5, the President cited teachers' role in molding future leaders.

"Our teachers lie at the heart of our educational system standing as the second parents of our children and molding them into future leaders, changemakers, and nation builders," he said.

"They play an indispensable role in preserving our country’s democratic values and way of life not only as stewards during elections but also as influencers of the younger generations," he added.

Marcos likewise thanked teachers for their sacrifices and urged the public to help advance inclusive education for the success of all learners.

"As we celebrate National Teachers’ Day, we acknowledge our educators all around the world for imparting the values of excellence and hard work among our students and nurturing them to become the best versions of themselves," he said.

"As we face the pressing challenges of our time, I ask everyone to channel our efforts towards advancing inclusive education that facilitates success for all learners and ushers in a better and brighter Bagong Pilipinas for us all," he added.

According to the President, his administration continues to honor teachers for the sacrifices they make through the policies and reforms implemented in the education sector.

He particularly cited the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which gives public school teachers additional teaching allowance, personal accident insurance, and special hardship allowances.

Marcos added that the administration also pursues initiatives aimed at enhancing teachers' skills through various professional development and career advancement opportunities so they can be on par with their international counterparts.

During the 2024 National Teachers’ Day Celebration in Quezon City on Thursday, Oct. 3, the President called on the Department of Education (DepEd), public and private school teachers, and other government agencies nationwide to work together in improving the quality of education in the Philippines.

He said that without teachers, schools and communities will not function.

"It's because of your passion, your innovation, [your] unwavering dedication that I hold firm belief that despite odds, we will push forward," Marcos said.

"Not only will the schools not work without teachers, the community will not function without you," he added.

Addressing learning poverty

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to invest in education so Filipino children can excel in life.

"Let us urge our government and private sector leaders and every Filipino from all walks of life to invest in education and join us in addressing learning poverty. Let every Filipino child reach their full potential," she said in her teachers' day message.

She likewise thanked the country's teachers for their sacrifices in shaping the minds of young Filipinos and inspiring them to become responsible citizens. 

"Your tireless efforts in classrooms and communities demonstrate your commitment to building a stronger nation," Duterte said.

"Together, let’s make the theme, 'Together4Teachers' echo across the country," she added.