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He could not afford to buy an expensive or even a simple gift for her much-admired teacher, because of social status.
But his gift was extra-special that moved not only her teacher but the whole worldwide web.
Teacher Luisa was in tears after receiving saluyot from a pupil during the World’s Teachers’ Day celebration.
Each year on October 5, the nation celebrates “World Teachers’ Day,” a dedicated occasion to honor cherished teachers who act as second parents to students, both within and beyond the classroom.
Students express their gratitude in diverse, creative ways to bring smiles and joy to their teachers on this special day: some perform, others organize small programs, write heartfelt letters, or give thoughtful gifts such as food, supplies, or flowers.
In reality, especially in public schools, not all students can afford to contribute to class funds or buy gifts for their beloved teachers.
Some students, however, have found simple, practical, and affordable ways to express their love and appreciation for their teacher.
Recently, netizens were touched by a story shared by Teacher Luisa Casuga Conmigo on her Facebook account. In celebration of Teachers’ Day, instead of the usual chocolates or flowers, Ma’am Luisa received a thoughtful bundle of jute leaves (saluyot) from one of her students.
According to Ma’am Luisa’s story, her student Jerick was apparently shy about giving the said gift. She reassured the child, saying that having a gift didn’t matter because she valued all her students equally. What truly mattered to her was simply being together to celebrate the special day.
It can be read, “The sweetest gift I [received] this World Teachers Day 2023 thank you Jerick.”
“Ang sabi n’ya sa akin kaninang umaga na nahihiya pa niyang sabihin sa akin…
Jerick: Teacher, wala po akong maibibigay sa inyo na kahit ano, ala po akong dalang chocolate, o bulaklak o regalo man lang na kahit simple…ang dala ko lang po ay isang tali ng Saluyot.”
“Teacher Luisa: Alam mo anak Jerick… meron man o wala kayong maibibigay sa akin ngayon Teachers Day. Wala sa akin iyon….dahil ang gusto ko kasama ko kayong lahat sa araw na ito.”
“Pantay-pantay ang pagtingin ko sa inyong lahat. Actually anak, ito ang nagustuhan ko sa lahat . Pinaiyak mo ako 🥲 dahil pinakita mo sa akin ang tunay mong pagmamahal sa akin bilang iyong guro.”
“You are true and humble and you care for me. Gusto mong ipakita at ipaalala sa akin na dapat laging Healthy si Teacher Luisa. Salamat anak sa regalo mo. Mahal ko kayong lahat.”
In an interview, Teacher Luisa shared her happiness over the simple gift Jerick had given her.
“I’ve been teaching for 29 years, and this profession has truly become dear to me. Honestly, I love the children I teach—I see them as if they were my own grandchildren; I treat them like my own children,” she said.
Contributed: Ricks de Leon
