The new normal may have limited physical interaction, but in no way did it hinder the unyielding commitment and drive of those at the frontlines of education – Filipino teachers. Even if the academic community is facing numerous challenges in preparation for school year 2020-2021, countless Filipino teachers remain passionate about providing quality basic education to their students.
Cagayan National High School Master Teacher Enrique Garcia remains committed to learning continuity during the pandemic.
Like many others, Mr. Garcia received training through webinars for distance learning. “Last April, when we were still under the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), I took the initiative to come up with self-paced modules. I thought of coming up with modules because this is one way I could help my students for the coming school year,” said Garcia.
According to Mr. Garcia, he spends his time collaborating with school leaders and his fellow teachers to create efficient class programs that will help the school adapt to the new normal. He also often meets with his colleagues virtually to discuss appropriate and effective learning delivery modalities for the upcoming school year.
Mr. Catolin’s first general assembly with parents and learners last year.
Argy Catolin, a teacher at Aglonok Primary School Iloilo, is a modern-day hero during these unprecedented times. Even before the pandemic, Mr. Catolin has been going above and beyond to teach the students in Barangay Cahigon, Calinog, Iloilo. Due to the geographical conditions, students and teachers alike need to take a 2-hour motorcycle ride and a 3-hour walk to reach Aglonok Primary School. Nevertheless, these challenges didn’t stop Mr. Catolin. “Teaching is about inspiring others,” Mr. Catolin reiterates. He is fueled by his passion to touch the lives of his students and influence their future.
The lack of electricity and reception in their area poses challenges in the upcoming school year. Recognizing the limitations of their area, his school has opted to utilize modular distance learning. Despite the challenges they may face, teachers and parents at the Aglonok Primary School work together to make sure that students can adapt to the new normal in education.
Mr. Catolin and Mr. Garcia are only two of the countless teachers who have their students’ best interests at heart and are working tirelessly to ensure that they still receive quality education.
Both teachers insisted that learning must continue, even during this pandemic.
