Embracing the Extraordinary:

A SPED Teacher’s Story

ARTICLE: STELLA MAE MARCOS | DECEMBER 19, 2023

Advocacy is the catalyst that will break the boundaries of society and status quo. It lives in all forms: most times, it can be in actual advocacy work; sometimes, through a person wearing a barong-style polo and black pants who passionately converses with students through his hands, creating delicate gestures that foster deep connections.

He is Edgar Durana, a Special Education (SPED) teacher at Don Jose Ynares Sr. Memorial National High School in Binangonan, Rizal. Through his hard work and advocacy campaign, he was included in the 2023 Metrobank Foundation’s Outstanding Filipinos for the academic sector. He fearlessly tackles his sector’s difficulties while actively creating initiatives for people with disabilities (PWDs).

Opening Doors

Initially, young Edgar had always dreamed of becoming a teacher. He began his teaching journey two decades ago as a science teacher in a public high school through the inspiring words of his former instructor.

A year later, he took a big leap when their school principal chose him for a scholarship training on handling learners with hearing impairments. The opportunity opened doors for learning not only for him as an educator but also for PWD students in Tayuman, Manila.

When Special Needs Education (SNED)started in 2004, there were no facilities or materials to support the learners, so he taught all the subjects himself. However, witnessing his students accomplish tasks that seemed impossible before joining the program gave him a reason to continue moving forward in the profession.

“I thought I would inspire them but they inspire me even more to do my best. Every day, I see their courage, resilience, and determination. SPED teachers like me need patience, empathy, creativity, and dedication to handle the complexities of special education, making it easier to address the tough parts of teaching,” he shared.

Boundless passion

Durana’s love for teaching is boundless. It is also the stepping stone for his passion to surpass the four corners of the classroom as he extended his work to his home community in Binangonan.

“I hope for a future where individuals with special needs are not only accepted but also given equal opportunities to learn, work, and lead fulfilling lives,” said the advocate.

One of his projects with the Department of Education (DepEd) – Rizal was the “Project Be I.E. Ready,” which aimed to establish an inclusive educational environment by increasing the number of teachers guiding learners with special education needs (LSENs). He conducted session guides for teachers and created modified materials for an engaging learning space for students.

Empowering learners beyond the school, he also pioneered the “SPED Income Generating Project with the Rotary.” Through the help of their teachers and parents, students created handmade soaps to be sold in commercial outlets. This project promoted entrepreneurship ideas while enriching students’ mindset that they have “something to offer” despite their disabilities.

He also honed the creative artistic skills of the students through the “Alay Pag-Ibig Project Para sa PWDs ng Binangonan” alongside the “Community Partnership with TESDA for SPED Scholarship,” where his initiative provided scholarship training in Bread and Pastry Production NC II to the PWD beneficiaries.

This training aimed to break the misconceptions about the sector. Durana's commitment contributes to the holistic well-being and future success of individuals with disabilities; hence, he is not stopping any time soon, lining up future projects continuously centered on his commitment to education and PWDs.

The Recognition

Despite his remarkable initiative for the SNED sector and the PWD community, Durana doubted himself when he discovered that the DepEd Division of Rizal had nominated him for the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos.

Moreover, his family, co-teachers, and students made him feel grateful for the opportunity, reminding him of his dedication to serving the humanities.

Over time, his visions have gradually come to life through various collaborative projects. The award highlighted his efforts and the advocacy he has undertaken. The acknowledgment stands as a testament to the tireless endeavors of SPED teachers in breaking the norms and pushing the boundaries of the education system.

He sees this recognition as a part of his vocation and mission, which is destined to bring hope and encourage everyone to cherish the small triumphs of PWDs.

Durana's story ignites a sense of inspiration within the community, encouraging everyone to welcome individuals with disabilities. He is one solid proof that we can break down barriers and foster a genuinely inclusive society, as we take a leap and embrace the extraordinary.

“Everyone—regardless of ability—can contribute meaningfully to society. It's about creating a world where differences are celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life,” he said.