CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, September 5, 2026 — Placing educators at the center of national gratitude, the Department of Education (DepEd) officially launched the 2026 National Teachers’ Month (NTM) at the Limketkai Atrium, bringing together teachers, education leaders from across Mindanao, and Central Office officials.
Celebrated annually from September 5 to October 5, National Teachers’ Month serves as a nationwide tribute honoring the dedication and contributions of Filipino teachers, aiming to revitalize the image of teaching as a vocation and publicly recognize their vital role in nation-building. The month-long celebration will culminate on October 5, coinciding with World Teachers’ Day as designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Guided by this year’s theme “Teacher, Ikaw Naman,” the celebration reminds the nation that after years of teachers giving their time, knowledge, patience, and care to generations of learners, it is now their turn to receive the gratitude they so richly deserve. Highlighting the fundamental contribution of educators to the country’s growth, Misamis Oriental Governor Henry S. Oaminal stated that “teachers are among the foundations of development. Our classrooms are among the first and most important development centers of the country. It is where we develop not only knowledge and skills but also discipline, compassion, resilience, integrity, creativity, and love for community, and it is where we begin shaping the country we want to see tomorrow.”
In her message, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos also expressed deep appreciation for the teaching community, emphasizing that “the impact you make reaches far beyond the classroom and one month is never enough to thank you for all you do. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and for helping shape the future of our nation.”
Addressing the assembly, Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the deep human connection teachers provide to learners, especially those facing difficult circumstances at home. “Many of our learners do not come from conventional families. Minsan ang hinahanap lang nila ay yung kamustahin sila, yung malaman na merong taong nag-iisip sa kanila, who is keeping a watchful eye on them. At the end of the day, in this age of artificial intelligence, there will never be any substitute for a warm hug, a warm pat on the shoulder, or even saying ‘hi’ or mentioning the learner’s name. Let’s make the extra effort; let’s go the extra mile,” Secretary Angara said. He added that “the school is the second home; it’s not just the place of learning,” emphasizing that “it takes a whole society, it takes a whole nation to move our education system forward.”
The kick-off activity in Cagayan de Oro City featured a rich array of activities, including a health and wellness Zumba session, a Mindanaoan cultural showcase by the Sikyad Artists Guro Ensemble, a Bench Cheering Competition among Mindanao regions, a welcome message by DepEd Region X Director Dr. Ruth L. Fuentes, the Talentadong Guro – Mindanao competition, and performances by regional champions and artists. With the official launch completed, tribute activities, special partner offerings, and recognition programs will continue in schools and communities across the country leading up to the National Teachers’ Day grand culmination on October 5.
