Election Day for one school principal

Imelda Caravaca Ferrer

Principal, Hen. Pio del Pilar

Elementary School I, Makati

Despite an overcast sky on Election Day, voters trooped to polling precincts bright and early. My teachers and I prayed for an orderly and peaceful election not only in Makati City but all over the country.

Precincts were jam-packed at the start of the day. In the afternoon, I went around to document the proceedings. My teachers and I proudly wore fuchsia shirts with the words, “I’m changing the world one day at a time. I Teach,” in front and, “Teachers plant seeds of knowledge that grow forever./Without teachers, life would have no class,” in the back.

Ever since the country became a democracy, election duties have fallen on the laps of teachers.

As history unfolded last Election Day, teachers all over the land—fatigued, haggard but still smiling—did their bit.

When the counting commenced, one precinct in our school had a problem with a defective memory card.  At another precinct manned by my hardworking teachers ng bayan, the machine that was OK during the testing and sealing conked out.

I’m mighty proud of my teachers for doing election duty. I’m also proud that the support staff lived up to its name.  I’m proud of those who braved the heat and discomfort so they could vote. But I’m especially proud of those who voted wisely. Voting is such a sacred act.