Celebrating MGCNLCA’s Navigators in Teachers’ Day 2025

“You are more than educators—you are navigators.”

Thus said School Director Helen Villanueva to the MGC New Life teachers and staff during the annual Teachers’ Day celebration last September 25 at the school auditorium. With the theme “Navigators,” the event was organized by the Student Government, Coral Reef Fellowship, and Whales to honor and appreciate the teachers who continuously shape the lives of students through their love, dedication, and patience.

“Your dedication is a seed planted in young hearts, and its fruits will last for generations,” Villanueva said, emphasizing the significance of their calling not just as educators, but as mentors to the students. 

She also shared her personal journal entry, which reminded teachers to transform the lives of their students by teaching with a Spirit-led authority. 

Serving as the guest speaker, batch 14 alumnus Ethan Matthew Tan thanked the teachers, including those who had taught him, for being constant sources of joy. He commended their dedication, which goes beyond educating students to exemplifying Christ-likeness in their lives. He also encouraged them to find fulfillment and hope in Christ, both in seasons of hardship and success. 

Tan is now serving in school as a cell group leader to senior high school students. He, along with other alumni who are serving in school as either teachers or cell group leaders, was also given recognition by Villanueva.  

The event also featured a video of parents and students expressing their gratitude to the teachers for taking on the role of being a second parent to the students, leaving an influence that extends beyond their academic lives.  A special performance of “Panalangin” by the Whales capped off the program.

Bracken Nicole Soliman of the Admin (Finance) Department shared, “In [the] Admin [department], we are also busy, but we’re so blessed that [we were] able to relax and have free time [during Teachers’ Day], where we don’t have to think about work.”

“I enjoyed the fellowship, the gathering, the students, everything. I am grateful that, above all, we honor God in everything that we do,” said Grade 6 Filipino Teacher Renante Cochangco.