Summary
Highlights
Joining 'Teach for the Philippines' in his senior year, Villafuerte initially doubted his non-education major background. He learned that simply trying is a success. He describes the initial chaos of teaching a class of 60 children and defines teaching as a vocation where skill, world need, and love intersect.
When asking students about their未來 aspirations, one replied 'delivery man for McDonald's.' Villafuerte realized his role wasn't to tell students to dream 'bigger,' but to make their dreams feel more achievable and real. He encourages aspiring to reach one's ambitions, as these dreams can change the world.
Villafuerte suggests that his generation fights for freedom against injustice, oppression, poverty, and inequality. He believes changing the world involves the pieces of ourselves we give to others. He stresses that it's not about the job chosen, but how one commits to doing good in any profession.
He shares the story of Casey, a 9-year-old non-reader and non-writer in Grade 3, who he invited for tutoring at Ateneo. Casey's excitement to learn was palpable, and Villafuerte's goal was to instill in him 'I want' and 'I can.' When shown his blank report card, Casey's emotional reaction highlighted the profound impact a teacher can have, even if only to provide hope.
Villafuerte concludes by encouraging hope, stating that everything done for the country is worth it. He reflects on his 'f(x)' – the 'x' that makes him function – which has evolved from loving his country to teaching for students like Casey. He urges everyone to 'teach' for the Philippines, not necessarily by joining the public school system, but by trying, enjoying, aspiring, choosing, and hoping for their beautiful country.
During his third year in college, Villafuerte attended the Ateneo Student Leaders Assembly (ASLA), a 5-day training seminar. He was moved by speakers who showed him the beauty of the Philippines. An immersion activity at an underwhelming public school after a challenging hike disturbed him, as he reflected on the sacrifices students made daily to receive education.
Villafuerte later participated in a training program for student officers, facing the dilemma of cutting his first day of class for the first time. This experience made him question his commitment to teaching good citizenship if he couldn't sacrifice one day. These activities solidified his love for his country and his passion for working with young people.
Delfin Villafuerte, a public school teacher, often gets asked why he teaches. He states his simple answer: 'I teach because I love this country.' He then elaborates on the deeper story that led him to this profession.