National Teachers’ Month, celebrated every year from September 5 to October 5, serves as a nationwide tribute to educators for their invaluable contributions to shaping the future. It's a time to recognize the hard work, dedication, and lasting impact teachers have on their students and society at large. In line with this celebration, Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), one of the country’s leading property developers, launched a thoughtful tribute to honor these real-life heroes.
In a unique take on giving back, RLC introduced the "My Teacher, My Hero" campaign, inviting employees to share stories of the educators who had a profound influence on their lives. By spotlighting these inspiring narratives, RLC sought to celebrate the remarkable work teachers do while fostering a deeper connection within its workforce.
The campaign sparked a wave of gratitude throughout the company. Employees submitted video entries on the theme "The Best Lesson I Learned from My Teacher," and the stories poured in—personal, touching, and profound. After careful deliberation, three teachers were chosen to experience an exclusive hotel staycation, a shopping spree, and various activities that highlighted the best of what RLC's malls, hotels, and Gokongwei Group retail affiliates have to offer.
An All-Around Staycation
The celebration kicked off at Summit Hotels Greenhills by Robinsons Hotels & Resorts. The teachers and their families enjoyed premium accommodations, beginning with a sumptuous breakfast buffet at Café Summit and a relaxing dip in the pool. It was a well-deserved break, offering them a moment of luxury and calm.
At Robinsons Galleria, families explored Timezone, immersing themselves in mini bowling, basketball, and VR games. The day continued with a hearty Korean BBQ lunch at Palgakdo and concluded with a dinner at Mann Hann, where shared laughter made the meal memorable.
Retail Therapy and Relaxation
Armed with a Php 20,000 budget, the teachers went on a shopping spree at Robinsons Department Store and Robinsons Supermarket. From luggage to kitchen appliances, shoes to children’s clothes, each item was a token of appreciation for their efforts in shaping lives. Southstar Drug also provided wellness and care packages, adding to the experience.
RLC added a pampering twist to the day. One teacher and her family enjoyed a hair and head spa at Jesi Mendez Salon, while another indulged in a foot spa and massage at Glow Up Beauty Lounge. These experiences demonstrated how RLC’s tenants cater to every lifestyle need, creating moments of relaxation and joy.
The Teachers Behind the Stories
For Jean D. Pabello, a Lease Assistant at Robinsons Malls - Dasmariñas, the influence of her teacher, Joel Pabatang Quimado Jr., runs deep. She recalls how his lessons weren’t just words spoken in a classroom; they were seeds planted in her heart. He showed her that happiness isn’t tied to money but to pursuing what she loves. His approach taught her to embrace curiosity, explore new ideas, and understand that there is no shame in asking questions. “Now, I'm not afraid to say ‘I don't know’ anymore, and I always want to learn new things. It's made me more curious and interested in the world,” Jean shares. This mindset has shaped her professional life at RLC, where she now approaches her role with openness, confidence, and adaptability.
Francis Samong, an Accounts Payable Analyst in Finance-Treasury, holds his teacher, Rodolf Tamba, in high regard. Mr. Tamba’s dedication to his community, teaching voluntarily without a salary, left a lasting mark on Francis. Beyond the classroom, he provides goods to the poor and runs a feeding program, especially during the peak of the pandemic. To Francis, his teacher embodies the spirit of selflessness and service. “He deserves a rest,” he reflects. Inspired by Mr. Tamba, Francis carries a sense of responsibility and commitment into his role at RLC, striving to support his team and contribute positively.
For Raphael Louis Javier, an HR Assistant, the wisdom of Dr. Antoinette Lacerna is something he carries daily. She once told him, “You can’t control the wind, but you can always control the sails.” Initially, its depth eluded him, but as he journeyed through life, its meaning became clear. In his HR role at RLC, where challenges and uncertainties are part of the job, Raphael has learned to focus on what he can control, adapting with resilience and grace. Dr. Lacerna's words have shaped him into a steady and proactive presence in the workplace.
These stories inspired RLC's tribute to teachers, serving as a reminder that their influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping both personal growth and professional journeys.
A Part of Something Bigger
This National Teachers’ Month celebration was part of a larger initiative by the Gokongwei Group to honor educators nationwide. Through RLove, Robinsons Land's corporate social responsibility arm, RLC reinforces its commitment to community and those who make a difference. “It’s not just about giving back; it’s about recognizing the everyday heroes in our lives and showing them how much they’re appreciated,” said Huey Silo, RLC's CSR Manager.
To relive the experience, visit RLC’s social media channels or go to this link: https://bit.ly/RLCNationalTeachersMonth. Special thanks to Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, Robinsons Malls, Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Supermarket, Southstar Drug, and Robinsons Galleria tenant partners: Palgakdo, Mann Hann, Jesi Mendez Salon, and Glow Up Beauty Lounge.
