by Monalisa Icuspit

Laoag City — A wave of gratitude, music, and celebration filled the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena on October 22, 2025, as the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte (SDOIN) gathered hundreds of teachers and education partners for the 2025 ANARAAR: World Teachers’ Day Celebration and the 123rd Founding Anniversary of the Division.

Anchored on the theme “Together4Teachers,” the event served as a vibrant tribute to educators—the heart and soul of the learning community—whose commitment continues to inspire generations of learners across the province.

𝗔 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

As early as 7:30 a.m., the arena came alive with pre-event showcases, including DITO advertisements and videos of Life After Five and the Step-Up Dance Craze, setting a festive tone for the much-awaited celebration.

The main event began with a solemn rendition of the Philippine National Anthem by Karen P. Agoy of Lanao Elementary School, followed by a heartfelt doxology from the Dingras Faith Academy Ensemble and the SDOIN Hymn AVP.

Cheers erupted as the Supreme Secondary Learner Government performed the Gurong Ilokano Dance Salvo, a lively number that embodied the spirit, rhythm, and passion of Ilocano educators.

𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱

In her warm Welcome Message, Dr. Jo Eulie Mei T. Domingo, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, lauded the dedication of teachers who continue to ignite hope and learning in every classroom.

This was followed by an Inspirational Message from Schools Division Superintendent Atty. Donato D. Balderas, Jr., who reminded everyone that teaching is more than a profession—it is a lifelong mission of service and transformation.

Guest of Honor Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos graced the event with an uplifting message, expressing her admiration for the tireless efforts of Ilocano educators. She commended their creativity, resilience, and deep sense of duty, affirming the provincial government’s continued support for education initiatives.

𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆

One of the day’s highlights was the Awarding of the Gurong Ilokano Dance Craze Winners, recognizing the most dynamic and creative teacher-performers in the division. Their performances showcased not only their artistry but also their unity and love for the teaching profession.

Adding a concert-like flair to the event were exhilarating live performances by Magrus (sponsored by Gov. CAM) and BRYN (sponsored by DITO), turning the arena into a lively stage of music and laughter. The energy soared higher with the raffle draw of major prizes and a closing dance, which had everyone moving to the rhythm of joy and camaraderie.

𝗔 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲

Participants arrived in elegant black or white concert-style attire, perfectly matching the event’s festive yet classy atmosphere. The day was more than just a commemoration—it was a celebration of legacy, unity, and the unbreakable bond that ties together the educators of Ilocos Norte.

As the music faded and applause filled the air, one message echoed across the arena: Teachers are not just the builders of knowledge, but the bearers of light—together, they shape the future.