Manila, Philippines—Teachers play a vital role in shaping the next generation. Through every lesson they prepare and every dream they encourage, teachers shape not only individual futures but also the future of the nation.

Recognizing this, McDonald’s Philippines believes that supporting teachers means more than celebrating them on a special occasion. As part of the nationwide celebration of National Teachers’ Month, McDonald’s Philippines did more than just join the millions of Filipinos who said “thank you” to their teachers—it also enabled meaningful moments of connection, while also implementing initiatives that support schools and their communities.

Supporting teachers starts with supporting their classrooms

To kick off National Teachers Month, McDonald’s Philippines turned over 50 ReClassified chairs to East Central Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro City, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara. Through ReClassified, decommissioned McDonald’s store furniture is transformed into durable, purpose-designed classroom furniture for public schools in need. By giving these materials a new purpose, the initiative helps improve learning spaces while making responsible use of existing resources.

The initiative underscores an important idea: recognizing teachers means not only thanking them for their dedication but also helping address the practical challenges they face and providing resources that support their work.

Making appreciation part of the everyday


Aside from improving classrooms, teachers deserve moments to pause, recharge, and feel valued amid the demands of their profession. From October 3 to 6, teachers from more than 1,600 schools nationwide received free coffee from the McDonald’s store nearest to them.

That same spirit extended to McDonald’s support for DepEd’s National Teachers’ Month activities from September 5 to October 5. The company shared as many as 8,000 meals with educators attending celebrations and gatherings nationwide and supported various recognition programs for both currently serving and retired teachers, and even outstanding teachers from regions implementing the DepEd Indigenous Peoples Education Program. Ronald McDonald and the Gang also brought fun and entertainment to educators, creating feel-good moments that allowed teachers to relax and share laughter with colleagues and their students, past and present.

Celebrating the people behind every lesson

Through its employee volunteer initiative Good Trip, McDonald’s shared feel-good moments with the teachers of Andres Bonifacio Elementary School in Tondo, Manila through a celebration themed “Teacher, Ikaw Naman!” (Teacher, It’s Your Turn!) featuring games, surprises, and memorable experiences dedicated to educators.

One of the educators who joined the celebration was Josephine Espiritu, a retired teacher-librarian who devoted 39 years to public school service. Throughout her career, she taught different grade levels while managing library responsibilities and accepting additional teaching assignments. Reflecting on the importance of the profession, she shared, “Iba ang teacher talaga. Walang engineer, walang doctor … kung walang teacher. It’s the noblest profession.” (Teachers are truly in a unique position—there will be no engineers, no doctors, without teachers. It is a noble profession.)

A year-round commitment to education

The appreciation shown during National Teachers’ Month is part of McDonald’s Philippines’ broader commitment to education, carried forward throughout the year in partnership with its charity of choice, Ronald McDonald House.

McDonald’s Philippines and Ronald McDonald House partner with local government units to establish Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Daycare Centers, which provide preschool children with safe spaces to learn, play, and socialize. Today, 60 Bahay Bulilit daycare centers operate across the country, supporting early childhood care and development.

Employee volunteers also participate in DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela each year, helping clean and repaint classrooms in preparation for the opening of classes.

To date, McDonald’s Philippines’ education programs have reached at least 13.2 million students, 14,500 schools, and 30,000 teachers, reflecting a sustained effort to strengthen learning environments and expand educational opportunities.

The impact of education is built on countless moments of care. McDonald’s Philippines believes in making room for these feel-good moments beyond the classroom and beyond National Teachers’ Month.