Metrobank Foundation Deepens Support to Teachers and Scholars through Education Initiatives

Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) continues to support education and teacher empowerment with two key events this March: the 44th National Teachers’ Month (NTM) Coordinating Council Meeting and the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Metrobank Foundation-BOYSEN Paint Scholarship Program.

On March 11, 2025, the 44th NTM Coordinating Council Meeting brought together partners at GT Tower International in Makati City. Representatives from government agencies, private institutions, and advocacy groups convened to plan for collaborative initiatives that recognize and support Filipino educators. The discussions focused on expanding teacher appreciation efforts and laying the groundwork for the 2025 National Teachers’ Month celebration in September.

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny M. Angara graced the event, highlighting the government’s ongoing reforms to uplift Filipino educators. In his speech, he said, “Naalala ko talaga yung initial na meetings namin with the President before I even took office at isa talaga sa tumatak sa akin yung sinabi niya na, ‘Take care of our teachers.’” (“I really remember our initial meetings with the President before I even took office, and one of the things that really stuck with me was when he said, ‘Take care of our teachers.’”)

The event also served as an opportunity to express gratitude to teachers and acknowledge the collective efforts of the NTM Coordinating Council who continue to champion their welfare. Secretary Angara extended his appreciation to those who have remained steadfast in supporting educators, particularly MBFI and other partners dedicated to uplifting the teaching profession.

“Kami ay nagpapasalamat for your dedication, especially to Metrobank Foundation. Salamat po sa inyong lahat.” (“We express our gratitude for your dedication, especially to the Metrobank Foundation. Thank you to all of you.”) “I think it’s a good time for our teachers not only because they have people like you caring for them and working for them but also because we have so much support from the administration for our teachers.”

Building on last year’s NTM celebration, which engaged over 97 partner organizations and introduced new educator-focused programs, this year’s meeting reinforced collective efforts to honor and empower teachers. Partners were recognized for their valuable contributions to the 2024 NTM celebration and reaffirmed their commitment to championing educators and their vital role in shaping the Philippine education system.

MBFI President Aniceto M. Sobrepeña emphasized that NTM is a celebration of the commitment and hard work of Filipino educators. In his welcome remarks, he said, “They (teachers) remain dedicated to their mission, shaping young minds and guiding students through uncertainty, and behind them stand all of you, our partners. As we move forward, we also return to the essence of our advocacy, ‘My Teacher, My Hero.’ This line reminds us that teachers do not simply teach, but also inspire greatness, instill values, and ignite dreams. But while teachers are heroes, they still need support. That is why this celebration exists.”

A few days prior to this event, MBFI likewise reinforced its commitment to education by awarding scholarships to deserving students. On March 4, 2025, MBFI formalized a partnership with BOYSEN (Pacific Paint Philippines) through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement at the GT Tower International in Makati City. This collaboration establishes a scholarship program for eight students from National University (NU) and the University of Santo Tomas (UST).

During the ceremony, scholars received their certificates of scholarship, symbolizing a shared commitment to academic excellence. Dr. Renato Carlos H. Ermita Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of NU, and Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D., Rector of UST, expressed their appreciation for the partnership and the impact of scholarships on students’ lives.

Under the agreement, eight Bachelor of Science in Architecture students—four from UST and four from NU—received scholarship grants for Academic Year 2024-2025 to 2027-2028. The total scholarship awarded amounted to 3.36 million pesos.

These two milestone events reaffirm MBFI’s advocacy to education whether by recognizing teachers’ contributions or supporting students in achieving their academic aspirations. With the continued support of partners and stakeholders, MBFI stays committed to supporting future leaders and educators, paving the way for a stronger education sector in the Philippines.