By Cecille Maloles
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — The Department of Education (DepEd) in Calabarzon has raised concerns over the growing challenges in classrooms, particularly the impact of technology, bullying, and mental health on students and teachers, as the nation observes National Teachers’ Month.
According to Ariel M. Zuelo, Unit Head – Public Affairs Unit and Regional Information Officer of the DepEd Calabarzon, these issues make this year’s National Teachers’ Month a timely occasion to recognize the vital role of educators in shaping the country’s future.
He added that the classroom environment today is far different from that of the 1970s and 1980s, largely due to the rise of gadgets and online platforms. While technology has opened new learning opportunities, it has also created new distractions.
“Young learners today already know how to manipulate gadgets like cellphones, tablets, and laptops at an early age. That is why teachers cannot afford to be left behind. We must advance alongside technology, especially for veteran educators who need to adapt to these changes,” Zuelo emphasized.
Another pressing issue, he added, is the alarming rise in cases of bullying. This includes not only verbal bullying but also physical harm, with some cases linked to mental health struggles among students. Teachers themselves also face mental health challenges due to the growing demands of the profession.
“Students are still in the process of developing their identity and character. Teachers must serve as guides in shaping them into responsible and compassionate citizens,” Zuelo said.
As these challenges persist, the nation takes time to honor teachers through the National Teachers’ Month, celebrated from September 5 to October 5.
Dr. Eduarda M. Zapanta, Chief of the Education Support Services Division, highlighted that this month-long celebration is meant to give recognition to the heroism and invaluable contributions of teachers.
“Teachers spend more time with children than their parents do. The quality, character, and values of our students reflect the dedication of their teachers. Education is the great equalizer, and teachers are second parents who shape not just students but future citizens of our country,” Dr. Zapanta said.
In Region IV-A CALABARZON alone, she noted, there are 3.7 million enrolled learners for School Year 2025, supported by 111,248 teachers across 6,007 schools—including 2,502 private institutions and 17 state universities and colleges. The region continues to have the largest school population in the Philippines.
Dr. Zapanta also highlighted that with over one million personnel, DepEd remains the country’s largest government workforce—its reach extending to millions of Filipino families.
For Zuelo, the role of teachers goes beyond textbooks and classrooms.
“The teaching and learning process is not confined to four walls. Many teachers take students outside to experience real-world lessons that prepare them for life,” he explained.
“As the nation marks National Teachers’ Month, it becomes an opportunity not only to honor the dedication of teachers but also to recognize the evolving challenges they face, reminding everyone that the future of the nation rests on the shoulders of these modern-day heroes,” Zuelo added.
