MANILA - As the world celebrates Teacher's Day, Philippines' bishops conference honored the country's teachers by thanking them and assuring them of prayers.

The chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Catholic Education San Jose Bishop Roberto Mallari said teachers play an important role in shaping the minds of the youth.

"Isa sa napakahalagang bagay na nakikita natin sa mga teachers ay naka-focus sila sa tao, sa paglago ng mga tao," Mallari said in an interview with Radio Veritas. "All teachers will agree with me: the joy of teachers is to see the students really advancing and succeeding in all professions.]

[One of the important things we see among teachers is that they are focused on people, on the development of people.]

The prelate also reminded educators that it is their responsibility to prepare the youth for life's challenges.

"Huwag matakot turuan ang mga bata na harapin ang tunay na hamon ng buhay. Technology help us na maaaring maging madali but let us not do away the reality of life. na hindi talaga madali ang buhay and so prepare them for that," Mallari added.

[Don't be afraid to teach the youth on how to face life's challenges. Technology may be able to make things easier but let us not to away the reality of life, that life really is not easy, and so prepare them for that.]

In one of his addresses, Pope Francis earlier praised teachers and thanked them for the sacrifices that came with their noble task.

"It is a beautiful and badly paid job," the pontiff said. "Because it allows us to see the people who are entrusted to our care grow day after day. It is a little like being parents, at least spiritually. It is a great responsibility!"

-- Erik Tenedero, ABS-CBN News