Public school teachers are gaining valuable financial skills thanks to ongoing support from the Department of Education (DepEd) and BDO Network Bank (BDONB). This partnership aims to equip educators with the financial knowledge needed to achieve personal goals while fostering financial literacy among their students.
For many teachers, understanding the fundamentals of financial management—such as budgeting, saving, and responsible borrowing—has been transformative. Practical budgeting, for instance, allows teachers to track monthly expenses effectively, alleviating stress from their already demanding workloads. It also helps them avoid debt traps and prioritize their financial goals, including retirement planning.
DepEd-National Capital Region (NCR) Regional Director Jocelyn Andaya highlighted the critical role teachers play in financial education. “Our teachers are essential in teaching financial literacy to students. It’s vital that they themselves have the knowledge and tools to impart these lessons,” Andaya said.
Through its partnership with BDO Foundation, DepEd conducts financial seminars designed to train teachers in essential money management strategies. This initiative supports the inclusion of financial literacy in the school curriculum for elementary and high school students.
Andaya also revealed plans to assess teachers’ current financial literacy levels to create a more sustainable and measurable approach. “With support from private partners like BDO, we can develop more modules and build our teachers’ capacity. This will help us track their progress over the next three to five years,” she explained.
BDONB: A Partner in Empowering Educators
BDONB, the community banking arm of BDO Unibank, emphasizes the vital role of teachers as the backbone of education. According to Alberto O. Quiogue, BDONB Senior Vice President and Salary Loans Group Head, supporting teachers directly impacts the success of students, communities, and the nation.
“The teachers are heroes who dedicate their lives to shaping the future. By empowering them with financial literacy, we’re not just helping individuals but also uplifting families and communities,” Quiogue said.
BDONB provides tailor-fit products, services, and regular financial seminars to help teachers achieve their financial goals. These programs focus on financial wellness, responsible borrowing, and distinguishing between good and bad loans.
“A financially sound teacher is more efficient and effective in the classroom,” Quiogue noted. “Through financial literacy, we aim to reduce the mental burden of money-related issues, allowing teachers to focus on their important role in education.”
Year-Round Support for Educators
Beyond financial programs, BDONB has demonstrated unwavering support for DepEd through various initiatives, including the annual Brigada Eskwela, Palarong Pambansa, and World Teachers’ Day celebrations.
“We at BDO Network Bank are always ready to support DepEd and its educators,” Quiogue added. “From helping clean and repair schools to providing donations, our commitment to teachers and students is constant and heartfelt.”
Through this partnership, DepEd and BDONB are not only empowering teachers but also creating a ripple effect that will benefit generations to come.
