To get them ready for the start of the academic year, the Navotas City Government held a three-day professional advancement seminar for teachers in Tagaytay City, Cavite.
The seminar was conducted in two batches on May 21 to 23 and May 24 to 26 to accommodate some 1,600 public school teachers and non-teaching personnel in Navotas.
The seminar, entitled “Stewardship: Pangalagaan ang Sarili, Pangalagaan ang Propesyon,” aimed to renew the passion and vigor of Navotas educators regarding their profession, as well as teach the value of self-love.
In his speech, Mayor John Rey Tiangco underlined the need for teachers to take care of themselves, so they could take care of others.
“You cannot give something you do not have. Learn to accept and love yourself for only then can you genuinely give and receive love,” Tiangco said.
He also stressed that people are the most valuable resource, and teachers are the ones who help develop and harness their potential.
“While our schools need to have complete facilities and equipment, I believe it is more important to ensure that we have teachers who can inspire their students,” Tiangco noted.
“A teacher may hold class under a tree, but if he is effective, he can instill love for learning and inspire greatness among his students. Therefore, teachers play a crucial role in achieving quality education,” he said.
Speakers in the seminar included Bro. Alvin Barcelona, Dr. Didoy Lubaton, Jonathan Yogawin, Mayi Lubaton, and Ning Tadena. They taught the participants the importance of addressing personal needs including rest, money, accepting and loving themselves, knowing their value, creating their life vision, and discovering their purpose.
“The responsibility to educate our youth is not easy, it can be overwhelming and tiring, and at times discouraging. To continuously move forward, you must always remember your purpose and embrace the opportunity to serve your fellow Navoteños,” Tiangco said.
Teacher-participants will be given three days’ worth of service credits for attending the seminar.