Turning passion into purpose for tomorrow’s teachers

In a society where quality education can often feel like a privilege rather than a right, dedicated student-scholars are finding profound guidance and purpose. On November 8, 2026, new student-scholars and volunteers gathered at the Harmony Hall inside the Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila, for the monthly Humanities Class—a morning dedicated to sharing wisdom and inspiration.

During the session, Jane Sy, directress of Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines, reminded everyone of the true meaning of education. True teaching, she shared, goes beyond classroom walls; it is measured by how deeply we care for and nurture the young lives entrusted to us.

For the listening scholars, her words did more than inspire them to study harder—they changed how they view their future roles in helping others.

Teaching with Love: Sonny Boy Ligutom’s Story

Attending his third Humanities Class, Sonny Boy Ligutom—a second-year Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)—found the experience transformative. For Ligutom, a core takeaway can be distilled into a single, guiding principle: “Helping is not an option; it is our responsibility as human beings.”

Ligutom believes that the Humanities classes have helped him grow more confident, and it completely changed the kind of teacher he wants to become.

“In school, we are taught to follow strict standards and lesson plans,” he shares. “Anyone can teach a lesson, but not everyone teaches with love. Sis. Jane Sy taught me today that when I finally have my own classroom, I need to look beyond the rules, lead with love, and support each child’s holistic growth.” 

The experience left such a mark on him that he doesn’t want it to end. “These classes are so joyful and life-changing,” Ligutom adds. “I even wondered if I could still attend after I graduate. These lessons shouldn’t just stay in this room—everyone needs to hear them.”

A Heart for Service: Johan Cyril Tiburcio’s Journey

For Johan Cyril Tiburcio, a second-year Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management at PUP, the sessions reinforce the timeless adage: “The youth are the hope of the nation, and education is the hope of the youth.”

Outside of school, Tiburcio volunteers with a group that teaches basic lessons to rescued youth. Because of this, he sees the Humanities class not as a routine seminar, but as real preparation for his dream of teaching.

“I have a genuine passion for teaching, and these classes help me grow,” Tiburcio says. “They teach me how to connect with children, understand my community, and become a better educator. I feel so lucky to be here because I can bring everything I learned today straight back to the kids in our organization.”

Before leaving, Tiburcio shared a heartfelt thank you to the foundation: “May you continue giving us these classes. We might not always have the words to say how much you helped us, but you will see it in the way we live our lives in the years to come. Thank you for a program we could never find anywhere else.”

The stories of Ligutom and Tiburcio stand as a testament to the enduring power of compassion-driven learning. By intertwining academic rigor with moral grounding, Tzu Chi’s mission of education continues to hone a new generation of passionate professionals ready to uplift their communities.

To support scholars and help sustain these transformative educational programs, we welcome your support through donations to the following Tzu Chi bank accounts:

Metrobank:

Account Name: Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines Inc.

Account Number: 163-3-163-07190-9

BDO:

Account Name: Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines Inc.

Account Number: 011-9-7800-180-0

DSWD Solicitation Permit No.: DSWD-SB-PSP-S-2026-000130