Catholic schools in the Philippines mark World Teacher’s Day with formative activities

“If not for teachers’ sacrifices, commitment, talents.. their virtues .. despite their own personal concerns ..  thank you for choosing the children  and their future … for filling in the roles they need as they present many challenges,” said Rev. Fr. Richard S. Rodriguez, in a four-minute video tribute for teachers. 

Rodriguez is Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan Parochial Schools (AVCPS) Superintendent, himself a teacher before he entered the seminary for priesthood.  October 5 is World Teacher’s Day.  For the year 2024, it is themed "Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education." 

AVCPS educators from the Deanery of St. Matthew, including Holy Infant Academy (HIA), a Catholic school in an island province of the Philippines, had a soulful celebration on Saturday with activities at a beach resort in San Teodoro town, which began with a serene Holy Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Andy Peter M. Lubi, deanery director.   “Prayers filled the air, and gratitude radiated from every heart, honoring the educators who guide and inspire,” said a narrative post from HIA.

The Holy Spirit Sisters established HIA in 1937 to aid the local church in its evangelization mission. In 1997, its ownership was turned over to the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan and its management to a team of lay administrators, in the spirit of lay empowerment.

A team-building activity that sparked both camaraderie and competition dubbed Amazing Race highlighted the day. “Teachers were grouped according to the seven fruits of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Each group set off with determination, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.”

“The first station required teams to memorize scripture verses from the Bible. With a mix of seriousness and laughter, teachers recited the verses, some stumbling but all determined to encourage one another. Next, they processed with lit candles to symbolize their journey of faith, creating a beautiful sight as they made their way to the next station.”

“At the second station, the atmosphere turned playful and dramatic. Each team had to burn representations of the seven deadly sins while carefully protecting the image of St. Matthew from the flames. The teachers cheered each other on, laughing at their task and united by the spirit of teamwork.”

“As the race continued, teams pulled out their phones to answer trivia questions in a Bible quiz. Groans and cheers erupted as they raced against the clock, their competitive spirits shining through. The final challenge involved completing the twelve gifts of the Holy Spirit, where creativity and collaboration took center stage.”

At the end of the race, “everyone gathered around the pool sharing the gifts of the Holy Spirit bestowed upon them in which they had a symbolic sharing of these gifts among one another.” 

“After lunch, the resort transformed into a playground for teachers. Some congregated for karaoke, filling the air with laughter and melodies, while others engaged in spirited volleyball matches, their competitive energy now directed toward friendly sportsmanship. Some teachers chose to unwind by the pool, basking in the sun and enjoying much-deserved rest.”

“As the day wound down, the joy of connection lingered in the air, echoing the deeper bonds forged through shared experiences. Teacher’s Day was not just a celebration of educators but a reminder of the vibrant community of St. Matthew formed through love, laughter, and learning.”

In an online interview with RVA on Saturday, Oct.  5, with HIA’s principal Alona Cueto, who is 35 years in service, she said “This celebration of teachers’ day is another emotional and humbling experience for me because I sincerely feel how noble and important this profession is which I chose and stand for despite the numerous challenges we are facing.”

“The experience yesterday strengthened our faith and hope that Catholic education will never be irrelevant and it brought us inspiration and pride to commit more deeply in this mission of forming these young generations into well integrated individuals. We are grateful for being recognized and honored on this special day for teachers because we understand even more our role in our society,” she added.

Dr.  Elsie Cacha-Castrence, HIA graduate of Class 1957, told RVA: “Teachers are our national treasures! I am with many others who salute you!”