A SALUTE TO ALL TEACHERS!

My heartfelt best wishes to all teachers, from elementary to college and both from private and public schools, as they mark World Teachers’ Day today, Oct. 5.

Yes, not just congratulations but best wishes.

May you people finally get your long overdue pay raise and benefits and the recognition you rightfully deserve for your continued dedication to your profession despite the meager financial rewards you receive.

May school owners finally have the CONSCIENCE to pay your JUST DUE from the YEARLY TUITION INCREASES AND OTHER FEES they impose.

May the government finally be HUMANE ENOUGH to reduce the HUNDREDS OF MILLIOINS OR BILLIONS in un-programmed funds and other similar appropriations and re-channel them as added salaries and benefits for you.,

And allow me to salute you with these personal dreams for your welfare:

Special groceries or supermarkets with lower than retail prices, similar to those for military personnel, so that they can buy or save more with their meager pay.

Housing projects on idle government lands nationwide and rock-bottom financing schemes and interest rates from government financing institutions.

Special discounts from government-accredited suppliers for all your teaching needs like uniforms.

Reduced taxes and higher health care benefits, like bigger discounts for medicines and treatment and hospitalization

A minimum of P1 million in immediate benefits for your children or spouse should you get killed or rendered disabled for work when you man the precincts during elections.

Please accept all my prayers for your continued good health, safety and prosperity dear teachers.

Words will never be enough to fully acknowledge or pay homage to the sacrifices you patiently endure year after year, in a million and one ways, just to see to it that our kids will walk along the path of wisdom, righteousness and godliness on their journey through Life.

May God bless and be with al of you, always. MABUHAY KAYONG LAHAT! 30