The Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) reaffirmed its support for education and teacher empowerment this March through two milestone initiatives: the 44th National Teachers’ Month (NTM) Coordinating Council meeting and the signing of a memorandum of agreement for the Metrobank Foundation–Boysen Paint Scholarship Program.
Held on March 11 at GT Tower International in Makati City, the 44th NTM Coordinating Council meeting gathered representatives from government agencies, private institutions, and advocacy groups to plan collaborative initiatives that support Filipino educators. The discussions centered on expanding teacher appreciation programs and laying the groundwork for the 2025 NTM celebration in September.
The Department of Education Secretary attended the meeting and expressed the administration’s continued commitment to uplifting the teaching profession. “I really remember our initial meetings with the President before I even took office,” the Education Secretary said. “One of the things that really stuck with me was when he said, ‘Take care of our teachers.’”
The Education Secretary also thanked the NTM Coordinating Council, MBFI, and partner organizations for their consistent support. “We express our gratitude for your dedication, especially to the Metrobank Foundation,” he said. “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.”
Building on last year’s celebration, which engaged more than 97 partner organizations and introduced new educator-focused programs, this year’s council meeting reinforced efforts to honor and empower Filipino teachers. MBFI recognized its partners for their contributions to the 2024 NTM celebration and renewed their shared commitment to championing educators and their role in shaping Philippine society.
In his welcome remarks, MBFI President Aniceto Sobrepeña said NTM is a tribute to the perseverance and service of teachers nationwide. “They remain dedicated to their mission, shaping young minds and guiding students through uncertainty,” Sobrepeña said. “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 — they inspire greatness, instill values and ignite dreams. But while teachers are heroes, they still need support. That is why this celebration exists.”
A week earlier, on March 4, MBFI formalized its commitment to advancing access to education through a partnership with Boysen (Pacific Paint Philippines Inc.), launching a scholarship program for architecture students from two leading universities.
The agreement was signed at GT Tower International in Makati City and established grants for eight students — four from National University (NU) and four from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) — enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Architecture program.
During the ceremony, students received their scholarship certificates, symbolizing a shared commitment to academic excellence and industry collaboration. NU President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos Ermita Jr. and UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard Ang, O.P., Ph.D., expressed their gratitude for the initiative and its long-term impact.
The scholarship covers academic years 2024–2025 to 2027–2028, with a total grant amounting to P3.36 million.
