We all have our own teacher stories. These are the moments of encouragement, lessons we never forget, words of patience, and wisdom passed down with care. That is why teachers will always hold a special place in our hearts. In the Philippines, educators are deeply respected for their resilience, creativity, and the cultural wisdom they share in their profession. They shape not only our minds, but our lives.

On October 25, the Meralco Theater will come alive with cheers, music and heartfelt tributes as the Gabay Guro Grand Gathering marks its 18th year of championing Filipino educators. With the theme, "Empowering Educators for a Sustainable Future", the 2025 edition honors teachers as heroes of learning and architects of resilience.

Gabay Guro is the flagship advocacy program of PLDT - Smart Foundation and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC). In partnership with PLDT Home, Smart, PLDT Managers' Club, mWell and the Department of Education, the initiative is about giving back to those who go beyond the call of duty to shape our future.

Over the past 18 years, Gabay Guro has grown into a comprehensive movement built on seven key pillars: Scholarships, Teachers' Training, Connectivity and Computerization, Classroom Donations, Livelihood, Digital Innovations, and Tribute. Each pillar is crafted to support teachers and equip them to lead change in their communities. Think of it as a complete care package for our teachers, designed to help them thrive not only inside the classroom, but beyond it.

Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Gabay-Guro Chairperson, mWell President and CEO, and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of MPIC shared, "When we invest in our teachers, we invest in the most fundamental pillar of a resilient and future-ready nation. The Grand Gathering is our annual affirmation that a strong, inclusive educational system --supported by digital tools, infrastructure, and holistic wellness --is the most sustainable path to national progress."

To date, Gabay Guro has supported over 2,300 scholars, producing 2,194 graduates, and 1,048 LET passers. This ensures a steady pipeline of qualified teachers, essential for sustaining quality education across generations.

Continuous professional development through teacher training programs equips educators with updated skills, fostering lifelong learning and adaptive communities. More than one million teachers have now been reached through these training efforts.

To bridge the digital divide, over 600 devices and broadband connections have been distributed to 50 partner schools, empowering more than 50,000 teachers and students, and helping reduce educational inequality. Scalable platforms like the Gabay Guro Super App extend support and resources, making education more accessible, efficient, and future-ready.

Safe and conducive learning environments are the cornerstone of resilient and inclusive educational systems. So far, 59 double classrooms have been built and donated to schools across the country.

Entrepreneurship training through Gabay Guro's livelihood programs enhances financial stability. Over 5,000 teachers and their families have received business training, with 1,500 educators launching small businesses that enable them to support their families and reinvest in their communities.

To help teachers stay healthy and engaged, Gabay Guro also provides access to health and wellness programs through mWell, including telemedicine services and mental health support.

Programs like Gabay Guro remind us that meaningful progress rests on shared responsibility. This year's Grand Gathering on October 25, 2025, is a convergence of gratitude, entertainment, and empowerment. Our teachers deserve not only celebration, but continued support: in resources, wellness, and respect.

As the Philippines works toward a sustainable future, let us remember that sustainability begins with those who teach it. So let us strengthen and empower them.