Join the #ThankYouTeacher online conversation

MANILA, Philippines – Rogelio Ladera, a teacher, is hailed as a hero in the small town of Concepcion, Iloilo.

When the world’s strongest typhoon hit the country, Lardera became one of the first responders of the town.

During the storm’s onslaught, the teacher brought his wife and 4 children to safety and then joined the Manaphag Quick Response Team to rescue other people in need.

The group responded to vulnerable areas such as the coastal area of Bacjawan Sur. Unfortunately, Ladera was unable to return to his family alive. On their way back from their rescue mission, a huge tree branch fell on Lardera and threw him off the team’s truck.

Ladera died in the pursuit to rescue other people. 

His sad yet inspiring story is a testament to the heroism of teachers in the country. 

Teachers, heroes

During and after natural calamities, teachers usually rise from the challenge of responding to the immediate needs of the community.  

But the heroism of Filipino teachers goes beyond disasters. Every day, as teachers troop to their rooms and face their classes for the day’s lessons, they contribute to molding the next generation of leaders. 

Teachers like Randy Halasan go the extra mile and serve in far-flung areas. 

Driven by passion alone, Halasan taught at the Pegalongan Elementary School in Davao and organized the indigenous Matigsalug tribe located in one of the farthest villages of the region. 

With the help of teacher Ran, the village, which used to be completely helpless, now has a bright future ahead. 

For the first time in 8 years, the village witnessed an elementary graduation, made possible through the perseverance of Halasan. 

Online conversation

In time for National Teachers’ Month, MovePH, Rappler’s civic engagement arm jumpstarts the online conversation to know more and celebrate the heroism of teachers like Ladera and Halasan.  

Join the online conversation on Saturday, September 6, at 4 pm as we express our gratitude to all Filipino teachers – from the volunteer teachers in far-flung areas to the overseas Filipino teachers abroad.

Tell us about your teacher who inspired you the most! What would you like to tell him/her? How did your mentor contribute to the person you are today? For those in typhoon-stricken areas, how did your teacher help you recover from the disaster? 

By virtue of the Proclamation No. 242 declared by President Benigno Aquino III, National Teachers’ Month is celebrated from September 5 to October 5 every year. 

You can join the conversation by commenting on the liveblog below or by using #ThankYouTeacher on Twitter and Facebook. 

 – Rappler.com