With schools closed, teachers have taken a big hit due to the pandemic. Some challenged with adjusting to online classes, some with no materials for online classes, and some who lost their jobs due to the closure of schools.
Karlo Ternora was going home when he stopped for some gas. While waiting for his change, a woman approached him and called him “anak”. Ternora immediately felt nostalgic and remembered how teachers are like second mothers to their students. Ternora was shocked and asked the woman what happened.
He shared, “As I heard the word anak naalala ko bigla mga Guro ko mga pangalawang nanay natin sa Eskwelahan.I asked what happened po sainyo? Sabi nya “wala na ako trabaho kasi dahil sa Pandemic as what it says sa hawak nya.”
It turned out, the stranger is a former private school owner named Eloisa Gicar, 65. According to her, the institution in Caloocan City had to shut down because it had difficulty transitioning to distance learning, in addition to accepting few enrollees this year.
When he was handed his change, Ternora gave it to the Gicar. She then insisted that Ternora get some items that she is selling but he refused. Ternora wished he had more time to treat her to a meal.
“From happy moments bigla ako natulala while driving I have what ifs sa utak ko.. ang tanda na nya pano kung may Covid ma bentahan nya o umulan o di naubos tinda nya pano na sya?I asked her permission kuhanan ko sya, sana matulungan natin mga naging pangalawang magulang natin sila din tumulong satin matupad pangarap natin. Salute to all the teachers,” he stated.
After posting his encounter on Facebook, Ternora received over 10,000 shares, all empathetic for the woman. Netizens were reminded about their teachers and how they are possibly coping in these trying times. She did not let her recent unemployment defeat her, but was determined to continue earning by becoming a vendor. Ternora’s entry not only told his touching encounter but reminded netizens the immense dedication of teachers.
As of writing, Eloisa Gicar has received ample supplies to start up her own sari-sari store.
Photo Credit: Facebook/Karlo Ternora
