by Vency D. Bulayungan

Lagawe, Ifugao (7 October) -- People here joined the world in paying tribute to teachers in celebration of the World Teachers' Day on October 5, 2010.

At exactly 10:05 on October 5, three pupils of the Lagawe Central School read the prayer for teachers at the local radio station here.

"As the pupils were reading the prayer, I can't help shed tears as I reminisce all the sacrifices teachers like me are doing daily in order to mold our pupils, Mrs. Aurelia Ballitoc said.

This also encouraged radio listeners to say thank you or text their teachers good messages adding meaning to said profession. Some also greeted their former teachers who are still active in service or now retired for making a difference in their lives.

According to Department of Education Supervisor Edel Kimayong, this occasion is a recognition and a celebration of the unique role and service that teachers play in guiding families, in strengthening of communities and in building the nation.

With the theme, "My teacher, my hero," the celebration seeks to generate widespread awareness and support for World Teachers' Day. It also hopes to revitalize the image of teaching as a vocation by increasing public awareness on the value of teachers in Philippine society and national development.

In line with this, schools may conduct special activities to honor teachers this October which is also Teachers' Month, Kimmayong said. He also enjoined alumni associations, parents teachers association, supreme student government and other school- based clubs or organizations to initiate their own projects in support of the campaign.