Embedded Files
Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC) is purposeful, consistent, and diplomatic in championing the rights and welfare of Filipino teachers. Unlike traditional militant groups that rely heavily on confrontation, or conservative organizations that choose silence over action, TDC strikes a unique balance. It raises teachers' voices through strategic, respectful, and constructive dialogue with decision-makers. It believes in engagement without enmity, in advocacy without hostility.
Here’s why every teacher should consider joining TDC:
1. A Track Record of Organized, Impactful Action Since 2007
1. A Track Record of Organized, Impactful Action Since 2007
Nationwide reach: Despite limited resources, TDC has organized activities across all major regions, from Metro Manila to Mindanao.
Consistent education and capacity-building: The TDC Learning, Advocacy and Consultation (TDC-LAC) program offers teachers legal education, skills training, and issue analysis on everything from curriculum to peace and human rights education.
National events and summits: Held in venues such as Pangasinan, Cebu, Baguio, and Puerto Princesa, these events foster unity and shared learning among educators across regions.
2. A Proactive, Professional Approach to Teacher Advocacy
2. A Proactive, Professional Approach to Teacher Advocacy
Diplomatic and professional: TDC prioritizes building and maintaining constructive relationships with DepEd leadership and other agencies.
Not confrontational, but never silent: It uses avenues like social dialogue, media statements, and peaceful mobilizations—not to antagonize, but to present informed, firm positions on teacher issues.
Active presence in DepEd’s network: TDC has links with DepEd NEU, DepEd PENS, PESPA, and local associations, often serving as invited speakers and policy discussants.
3. A Voice in Policy and Legislative Reform
3. A Voice in Policy and Legislative Reform
TDC has long been involved in legislative lobbying, helping influence key reforms like salary increases, improved election duty conditions, and curriculum shifts.
Members attend congressional hearings and working groups, submit proposals, and help shape national conversations on education.
4. Legal Support and Protection for Teachers
4. Legal Support and Protection for Teachers
Through its Paralegal Training Program, TDC empowers teacher-leaders with legal knowledge.
It has helped resolve cases with the GSIS, DepEd, and even filed COLA claims before the Supreme Court.
TDC’s paralegal volunteers and partner lawyers offer crucial assistance to teachers facing legal troubles.
5. Media Presence and Public Trust
5. Media Presence and Public Trust
TDC enjoys consistent coverage in national media, proving it is a trusted voice on matters such as salaries, DepEd policies, school opening issues, and education budgets.
This credibility ensures that teachers’ concerns do not fall on deaf ears.
6. Active in the Global and Civil Society Arena
6. Active in the Global and Civil Society Arena
Since 2009, TDC has participated in international conferences and webinars, extending the reach of Filipino teachers’ voices.
Partnering with groups like ASPBAE, E-Net, LENTE, PMCJ, and others, TDC expands its influence beyond education into climate justice, electoral integrity, and human rights.
7. Humanitarian and Solidarity Programs
7. Humanitarian and Solidarity Programs
TDC does not stop at policy advocacy—it lives out its values through “Bayanihang Guro,” Project Pag-Aram, and LingapBigas, helping communities during calamities, pandemics, and times of crisis.
Palaro ng Ating Guro, a sports and wellness event, brings teachers together in a spirit of fun and unity—showing that advocacy can be joyful too.
8. Academic Recognition and Grassroots Growth
8. Academic Recognition and Grassroots Growth
Prestigious institutions like UP, PNU, and PLM recognize TDC's value, often inviting its leaders as resource speakers.
TDC has established regional and division-level chapters, leading toward unionization, with presence in all 17 regions.
It even supported the formation of NaHTAP, the national organization of Head Teachers, which gained swift recognition.
9. A Movement with Heart
9. A Movement with Heart
What truly sets TDC apart is its compassion. Teachers helping teachers—whether in legal battles, disaster relief, or grassroots organizing. It's not just an organization; it's a community of care and dignity.
Be Part of Something Greater
Be Part of Something Greater
If you believe that teachers deserve more than token appreciation, if you want to work with a group that listens,
acts, and respects both its members and its partners—then TDC is the organization for you.
Join not just to belong, but to make a difference.
Join TDC, where teachers stand with dignity—together.
Page updated
Report abuse