WBS Institute for Asian Educators Development
Honoring Our Educators – Building a Just and Inclusive Future through Education
Message from the President
“As WBS enters its 47th year of committed service, we honor our enduring purpose: to uplift the lives of Filipino teachers, especially the most marginalized, and to strengthen our collective pursuit of democratic, scientific, and mass-oriented education. This year reaffirmed the power of solidarity, community, and transformative action.”
National Teachers’ Forum 2017 – “The Teacher as a Pillar of Democracy”
Held in Baguio City, this year’s forum gathered 620 educators, academics, and youth leaders to dialogue on the role of education in democratic nation-building. Panel sessions tackled indigenous knowledge integration, teacher leadership in conflict-affected areas, and the moral responsibilities of educators in politically turbulent times.
Grassroots Teachers’ Welfare Campaigns
In response to local calls for help, WBS launched community-level campaigns in Sulu, Samar, and Sultan Kudarat to provide medicine, groceries, and temporary shelter to elderly teachers facing abandonment and poverty. More than 60 beneficiaries were assisted through this combined effort of our regional chapters.
Special Highlight: “Burial with Dignity” Program
Through our signature welfare initiative, WBS provided financial and ceremonial support to the families of 11 impoverished retired teachers who passed away in 2017. Volunteers helped organize simple memorials, ensuring these educators were laid to rest with dignity and honor.
Expanding the Asian Educators Network
This year marked the formation of the Southeast Asian Forum of Educators for Justice, co-convened by WBS, and joined by partners from Cambodia, Indonesia, and Myanmar. The forum, held in Manila, focused on comparative education systems and the shared challenges of privatization, labor exploitation, and cultural erasure.
Training on Inclusive Education
In partnership with a local university in Davao, WBS trained 120 teachers on inclusive education strategies for students with disabilities and those from indigenous communities. Emphasis was placed on culturally responsive pedagogy and differentiated instruction.
Communication Skills Training for Secondary Teachers
More than 180 high school teachers participated in our English language proficiency and communication enhancement workshops held in Laguna, Nueva Ecija, and Bukidnon. The workshops aimed to increase confidence and effectiveness in using English in both classroom and professional settings.
Launching the “Guro sa Barangay” Initiative
WBS piloted “Guro sa Barangay,” a project where volunteer teachers conduct weekend literacy sessions in underserved barangays. The initiative, now active in 8 communities, serves both out-of-school youth and adult learners. Early feedback shows increased confidence and engagement among learners.
Recognition of Lifetime Service Awardees
WBS honored five educators who have dedicated over 40 years to teaching in rural public schools. Each received a modest stipend, a commemorative plaque, and a community tribute attended by students and fellow teachers.
Message of Gratitude
To our dedicated volunteers, selfless donors, and committed members: thank you for walking with us, building with us, and standing with teachers across the country and region.
Looking Forward to 2018
We aim to broaden our community literacy programs, deepen our policy engagement, and reinforce our commitment to teachers’ rights, welfare, and dignity. Together, we continue to teach, serve, and transform.
