Teachers accept ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ challenge
It was an emotional experience witnessing and watching on TV the most awaited historic national event, the inauguration of Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III to the presidency. He delivered his message with utmost confidence, truthfulness and sincerity. Media kept on emphasizing the important things he said. He challenged each one of us to do our part for the Philippines to become “Bagong Pilipinas.”
We were not there just to listen and praise or confirm what he said was all correct, but also to analyze and ask within ourselves, “Am I part of the suliranin (problems) that he mentioned ? or I am now a part of the solution?”.
All kinds of professions take their oath, including a classroom teacher who has the greatest influence to society, especially to the younger generation. But in what degree could a teacher help? Educating a child is not the only reason for a teacher to come to school and hold a class and expect salary a month after. It is more of concern to students, maximizing service, and doing sacrifices. To live simply, disciplined, and contented could lessen graft and corruption. A crime which the president kept on reiterating that it is a principle to live, not just a slogan and for posters during campaign, “ Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap” .
He will set as an example of humility, as teachers do. He will do his best to keep his promise, but he could not do it all alone. Everyone has his own obligation to make our hopes a reality. As he said, “Kayo ang Aking Lakas,” we must be law-abiding citizens so our president could materialize his dreams for the people. Big things start from small things, whatever the president can do, starts from each and every citizen of the country.
It is hereby pledged, that we as teachers, accept the challenge to do our duty to the best we can, to be honest as we can be, and to do service whether it may mean sacrifices, for the hope and bright future of the next generation, who are also our own family and our own blood .
With God’s grace, may our new president be surrounded with honest cabinet members and high government officials who can help him build the nation and guide us “Patungo sa Tuwid na Landas.”
Mabuhay ka, P-NOY, we salute you!
