Teach for the Philippines (TFP) is recognized for its transformational training, designed to support teachers holistically and empower them to lead positive change in the classroom and beyond. Through the Katig* Transformative Teacher Training series, TFP is expanding this unique approach to reach more DepEd teachers across the Philippines, extending beyond its Core Programs to meet the needs of educators nationwide.
The Katig initiative has received overwhelmingly positive feedback since its launch. The HP Philippines-supported 2-day Wellbeing Workshops and The Purpose-Driven Educator Workshop, both piloted last year across different public schools in Metro Manila, were highly requested by school principals who recognized the value of professional development that focuses on mental health, motivation, and self-care. Teachers who attended these workshops shared that they felt reinvigorated, more purposeful, and ready to bring new energy into their work. Reflecting on the sessions, one participant shared, “I’ve become more positive about facing each day as a teacher,” while another remarked, “Thinking back to the workshop reminds me to take time for myself to recharge.”
These workshops provide much-needed support for teachers, who are often faced with the challenges of balancing a heavy workload, meeting tight deadlines, and managing diverse student needs. By focusing on teacher well-being, TFP ensures that educators have the tools and support they need to stay motivated and resilient.
DepEd teachers from Nicanor Garcia Elementary School present their group activity output on how to apply wellbeing-informed activities in their classrooms.
Katig’s Unique, Teacher-Centered Approach
One of the hallmarks of the Katig series is its foundation in community feedback. Each workshop topic is chosen based on insights gathered directly from teachers, ensuring that the training aligns with their immediate needs and challenges. This teacher-centered approach is anchored in TFP’s belief that effective education starts with empowered educators.
To support educators across various aspects of their roles, TFP has scheduled new workshops this school year, including Literacy & Life Skills Teaching Integration and Systems Thinking for Climate Education. In response to high demand, the well-received The Purpose-Driven Educator Workshop will also expand to reach regional TFP partner schools. Through this expansion, TFP aims to impact 5,000 DepEd teachers by the end of the school year, equipping them with skills and strategies for an evolving educational landscape.
Katig workshops are not sit-down lectures. The workshops encourage self-reflection as well as active participation from attendees.
A Call to Support Teacher Development
TFP’s Katig Transformative Teacher Training series is helping educators across the Philippines find purpose, manage stress, and become stronger advocates for their students. In reaching more teachers and schools, TFP is not only fostering positive change in classrooms but also empowering communities. For those interested in supporting this impactful work, contact TFP’s Development Team at katig.team@teachforthephilippines.org to contribute to the ongoing mission of uplifting educators and students throughout the country.
*Katig, meaning “outrigger” in Filipino, symbolizes TFP’s commitment to stabilizing and supporting teachers as they navigate the challenges of public education.