By Aerol B. Patena
MANILA, (PNA) — Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno urged teachers to uphold truth and justice as she paid tribute to their sacrifices and their significant contribution towards nation building.
In her speech during the celebration of the World Teacher’s Day at the Philippine Sports Arena, she said teachers have a great role in forming the minds, hearts and souls of the youth which she described as the future leaders of the country.
“I appeal to our teachers to inculcate to our students to live with honor and dignity,” the Chief Justice said.
As the country grapples with the issue on the misuse of public funds, Sereno appealed to participants to stress to their students that stealing public money is immoral.
“Corruption destroys the soul of the nation,” Sereno said.
The senior magistrate also expressed her sympathies with the instructors.
She said she used to teach Law for 19 years and related that her parents and relatives were also members of the academe.
“Teaching runs in my blood and DNA,” she said, to the applause of the audience.
She lauded them for their commitment to their duty in educating the youth despite their meager salaries. These instructors are making their ends meet to support their families.
She extolled the educators for their duty in supervising the election process and participating in relief operations during natural calamities.
“A great part of our democracy relies on the responsibility of our teachers,” she said.
Lastly, she urged the audience to never stop dreaming of a nation that is dignified and moral. “We must not waver in our belief that there are good and honorable Filipinos,” Sereno said.
The Dept. of Education has organized the celebration in culmination of the National Teachers Month which is aimed at expressing gratitude for the positive influence of the teachers on learners across the nation.
Over 7,000 participants representing the National Capital Region and Regions 3 and 4-A were entertained and paid tribute to by DepEd officials, private organizations, and members of the entertainment industry.
“As prime instruments of education and molders of young minds, teachers hold a special place in society. This celebration honors the remarkable deeds of the members of the noblest profession,” Education Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro said. “We are where we are because of the teachers that have touched our lives,” he added.