Noemi Bautista, a public school teacher for the past 20 years, always brought extra “baon” for her poor students who go to school hungry. She would also provide them with learning materials which she buys from her own meager salary.
Bautista, a mother of four, said she who would give her own money so that her students would get by in their schooling, a challenge that many public school teachers face every school year.
In recognition of her noble deed, Senator Grace Poe vowed to help Bautista complete her doctorate thesis and earn her PhD.
“Teachers mold us and in the process, shape our future. Every support must be extended to them,” said Poe, who is co-author of Republic Act 10743 which sets Oct. 5 as National Teachers’ Day.
Poe also gave Bautista a certificate of recognition and a pilgrim bracelet commending her for her tireless pursuit to raise well-rounded and honorable individuals.
The senator urged the country’s teachers to serve as beacons of perseverance and commitment just like Bautista, who she said exemplified dedication and compassion toward students.
“We the teachers are the second parents of our students. We are the instrument in molding them to become responsible and good citizens,” said Poe, a teacher herself.