MANILA - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday hailed the Filipino educators' crucial role in honing the students' skills and shaping them as the country's future leaders. In his message for the National Teachers' Day celebration, Marcos said the current administration is pursuing initiatives that would enhance teachers' skills through various professional development and career advancement opportunities. He reiterated the government's commitment to helping teachers become 'at par with their international counterparts.' '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. 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 said. 'As we celebrate the 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.' To further honor the sacrifices of teachers, the Chief Executive pledged to implement several policies and reforms in the education sector. He cited Republic Act (RA) 11997 or the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which gives public school teachers additional teaching allowance, personal accident insurance, and special hardship allowances. '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,' the President added. During the 2024 National Teachers' Day Celebration in Quezon City on Thursday, Marcos called on the Department of Education (DepEd), public and private school teachers, and other concerned agencies to work together to improve the quality of education in the country. The event served as the culminating activity for the celebration of National Teachers' Month and is in line with RA 10743, which declares Oct. 5 of every year as National Teachers' Day. (PNA) Source: Philippines News Agency