Teachers feed kids in lieu of protest

CEBU, Philippines - Instead of holding a traditional protest on the street, members of the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition in Central Visayas yesterday joined the nationwide teachers’ protest by feeding over 300 pupils in Barangay Guizo, Mandaue City.

Anabelle dela Cerna, TDC-CV vice president, said the organization also distributed school supplies and books. The activity was the teachers’ way of showing to the government that despite their being one of the most deprived public servants, they still continue to work hard to do their duty and serve the people.

“We can work more than what we receive. We also want to reiterate that despite our economic situations we can still extend our help especially to our youth,” TDC-CV said in a statement.

The TDC-CV is calling for P10,000 across-the-board salary increase for teachers.

“This administration remains to be deaf on our call for salary increase for two years now. Since the proposed national budget hearing was done last month many teachers felt frustrated because again for the third time we were not given importance. We are urging the government to hear our voice and increase our salary,” the statement added.

“Teachers’ Day is the day to recognize the work, sacrifices and hard work done by teachers. We hope that the government will soon be recognized and heed to our call,” it added.

At present the entry level of a teacher is only P18,594 with an additional P2,000 allowance. The amount is not enough for a teacher to live decently.

A study shows that for a family with two kids to live decently it should have an income of at least P1,000  per day.

The TDC-CV has around 3,000 members in Cebu.

The coalition is leading Filipino teachers in their struggle for rights, welfare and dignity and envisions an educational community where all teachers are united in upholding their dignity and aware of their relevance in the society.  (FREEMAN)