Dr. Beth Lazaro receives the winter coats from Michael Alejandro, Secretary-General of the Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity Mid-Atlantic Region and Alan Uyenco, Youth Pastor of Oxon Hill Baptist Church. The two other teachers (from left to right) are Joann Morales and Gay Mateo. ( Photo by Melody Alejandro)

The Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity Mid-Atlantic Region and Oxon Hill Baptist Church partnered to donate winter coats to Filipina teachers in Prince Georges County, MD.

The 80 teachers arrived from the Philippines last September 21. They were contracted by the county’s Department of Education to teach pre-school through middle school. Some of the instructors will also be teaching Special Education classes.

According to Gay Mateo, one of the teachers, their contracts are from 1 to 3 years. They were recruited from all over the Philippines. They also come with different educational backgrounds. Ms. Mateo has a Masters in Psychology. Beth Lazaro, who received the donation on behalf of the group, is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Both are graduates of the University of the Philippines.

The winter apparels are gifts from Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity members and members of Oxon Hill Baptist Church. The church is also hosting the newly-arrived teachers to a Harvest Dinner at the church on November 19.