Businesses, civic groups, academic institutions, government agencies and community organizations are being encouraged to launch initiatives supporting Filipino teachers’ well-being, professional development and capacity to deliver quality education during this year’s National Teachers’ Month.

Carrying the theme “Teacher, Ikaw Naman!” or “Teacher, It’s Your Turn!”, the celebration is led by the National Teachers’ Month Coordinating Council, with Metrobank Foundation Inc. serving as lead and secretariat.

The 2026 celebration aims to promote more localized and community-driven initiatives while encouraging organizations to align their programs with priority areas identified by the Second Congressional Commission on Education.

“EDCOM II has given us a clearer picture of where our teachers need us most. By aligning our efforts with identified needs, we can maximize the impact of every contribution and create lasting benefits for teachers and learners alike,” said Metrobank Foundation president and NTMCC Chairperson Philip Francisco Dy.

Last year’s celebration brought together 70 partner organizations and reached thousands of teachers nationwide.

Among the participating groups was the Philippine Amusement and Entertainment Corp., whose president and CEO Lawrence Li Tan said the movement allowed the company to support teachers while advancing its own mission.

“Being part of the National Teachers’ Month movement has been a meaningful privilege for PAEC,” Tan said. “More than building destinations, we create spaces where learning comes to life, allowing us to celebrate and support teachers every day.”

The Teacher Education Council also highlighted the role of the movement in promoting teacher education and raising awareness about issues affecting the profession.

“The National Teachers’ Month has reinforced the Teacher Education Council’s role as the government’s primary agency for teacher education and development,” said Dr. Jennie V. Jocson, executive director V of the council.

City Savings Bank assistant vice president and Reputation and Brand Management head Paula Viegelmann-Ruelan said supporting the celebration reflects the bank’s commitment to educators.

“When we invest in educators, we’re really investing in every student, every classroom, and every community they touch,” Viegelmann-Ruelan said.

Organizations may contribute through professional learning and development, wellness and mental health programs, financial literacy sessions, digital learning and technology support, recognition activities and other programs designed to help teachers inside and outside the classroom.

Becoming an official National Teachers’ Month partner is free and open to organizations of all sizes.

The National Teachers’ Month movement began in 2008 as the Teachers’ Month Campaign. It was institutionalized in 2011 through Presidential Proclamation No. 242, which declared 5 September to 5 October as National Teachers’ Month. Republic Act 10743 later designated 5 October as National Teachers’ Day.

DT