As a continuation of the series of activities celebrating the 125th Anniversary of the Opening of Classes at the Philippine Normal School (PNS), the Philippine Normal University (PNU) community gathered for a crucial discourse centering on the institution’s greatest contribution to the country: its teachers. Held on September 16, 2026, at the Geronima T. Pecson Main Building Auditorium, the event served as a platform to focus specifically on the welfare, resilience, and holistic well-being of educators amid ongoing uncertainties in the Philippine education system. The milestone event was heavily attended by PNU faculty, staff, and pre-service teachers.
The conversation was highlighted by the sharing of insights from a distinguished panel of education leaders and grassroots advocates. Dr. Joe-Bren L. Consuelo, Director II of the Quality Pre-Service Teacher Education Office under the Teacher Education Council (TEC), opened the discussion by addressing the gap between legislative frameworks and classroom realities, emphasizing how national policy must translate into tangible, felt support for teachers on the ground. Dr. Filomena T. Dayagbil, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region VII Director and Co-Chair of the Technical Panel for Teacher Education, underscored that a world-class education system is fundamentally unattainable if the individuals keeping it afloat are burdened and insufficiently supported.
Providing a critical grassroots perspective, Mr. Benjo G. Basas, National Chairperson of the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), discussed the daily realities of public school teachers, advocating for fair compensation, manageable workloads, and the protection of their basic rights. Shifting the focus to the next generation of educators, PNU’s Student Affairs and Services Office Director, Dr. Merimee T. Siena, elucidated the importance of providing robust mental health and academic support systems for pre-service teachers to ensure their successful transition into the profession. Rounding out the notable roster was Department of Education (DepEd) Assistant Secretary Janir T. Datukan, who detailed the government’s current systems, structural reforms, and extended support mechanisms designed to empower teachers deployed in the field.
Shortly after the panel presentations, Dr. Zhanina U. Custodio, Director of the Creative Works Office, provided a comprehensive synthesis of the core talking points. She then facilitated an engaging question-and-answer session, allowing the invited experts to elaborate on their initial presentations and address the pressing concerns raised by the audience.
In his closing address, University President Dr. Bert J. Tuga issued a compelling challenge to the PNU community. He urged attendees to move beyond discourse and use the multidisciplinary insights gathered from the panel to forge meaningful, actionable steps toward improving the lives and working conditions of our noble educators.
As the National Center for Teacher Education, PNU’s 125-year legacy is defined not only by the pedagogical excellence of its graduates but by its unwavering advocacy for the teaching profession itself. This panel discussion reaffirmed a vital institutional truth: to champion the future of Philippine education is to champion the fundamental dignity and well-being of the Filipino teacher. Moving forward, the university stands committed to leading this charge, ensuring that the educators who mold the nation’s youth are themselves protected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
