Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping not only their own futures but also those of their students. Through initiatives by the Department of Education (DepEd) and BDO Network Bank (BDONB), public school teachers are gaining critical skills in budgeting, saving, and responsible borrowing. These programs aim to build confidence and improve financial well-being among educators, ensuring a stronger foundation for education nationwide.
Empowering Teachers Through Financial Literacy as a Game-Changer
Teachers who understand financial principles can practice discipline and avoid common pitfalls like debt traps. DepEd and BDONB have made significant strides in educating teachers about the importance of budgeting. Practical budgeting allows teachers to identify where their money goes, alleviating financial stress.
“Here in DepEd, we’re looking for ways to train our teachers on financial literacy because they can’t teach that to their students if they themselves don’t know anything about it,” Jocelyn Andaya, DepEd-National Capital Region Regional Director, highlighted the necessity of equipping educators with these skills. “Our teachers play a very crucial role in teaching financial literacy to our students. It’s important that at a young age, they (students) are already taught to be self-sufficient financially and know how to budget and plan for their future.”
This effort extends to training students, as financial literacy becomes part of the school curriculum, preparing future generations for financial independence.
BDONB’s Commitment to Teachers
BDO Network Bank (BDONB) recognizes teachers as unsung heroes shaping the nation’s future. Alberto O. Quiogue, BDONB Senior Vice President and Salary Loans Group Head, emphasized: “The teachers are really the heroes. Day in and day out, they’re the ones who sometimes spend more time with our children. So it’s very important that we support them because it’s like supporting our own family. The success of the teachers will depend on the support they get not only from the government but even from the private sector.”
BDONB’s financial literacy seminars provide teachers with insights into managing money, differentiating between good and bad loans, and practicing responsible borrowing. These lessons aim to ease financial burdens so teachers can focus on their work with renewed efficiency and purpose.
A Sustainable Vision for Financial Wellness
DepEd’s partnership with BDONB goes beyond training. Plans are underway to develop tools that assess teachers’ financial literacy levels. This will help create a sustainable program with measurable outcomes over time. Andaya noted the significance of private sector collaboration: “We believe that a financially sound teacher can function and be very efficient. Teachers who have many financial problems are the ones who get bogged down and can’t teach very well because there are many things in their minds,” he said.
“The financial literacy program is helping them be more efficient. I think the most important thing that we promote to teachers is responsible borrowing and financial wellness. Every time we have an opportunity, we give them a little talk on financial wellness, how to achieve their financial goals by managing their money well, and knowing the difference between a good loan and bad loan.”
Supporting Teachers All Year Round
BDONB’s commitment extends beyond seminars. As an active partner in DepEd programs like World Teachers’ Day, Brigada Eskwela, and Palarong Pambansa, BDONB offers holistic support.
“We at BDO Network Bank, we’re always there to support the teachers and the many endeavors of DepEd. Any support that they need, we’re all out for them,” Quiogue said. “We support the Palarong Pambansa. We have the yearly Brigada Eskwela where we help clean, paint, and fix the schools. There’s also a program wherein at the beginning of the year, we give a lot of donations to the students and teachers. We’re always there to help them.”
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These efforts include donations, school cleanups, and other community engagements that make a lasting impact on both teachers and students.
Financial literacy teachers not only benefit themselves but also serve as role models for students, fostering a culture of financial responsibility. With support from DepEd and BDONB, educators are empowered to achieve their financial goals and shape brighter futures for generations to come. Together, these efforts highlight the importance of collaboration in creating a sustainable impact on education and society.
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