Manila: Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday hailed various organizations for honoring outstanding Filipino teachers, saying it would help uplift the entire education system.
According to Philippines News Agency, Angara emphasized that recognitions from the Metrobank Foundation, Princess Maha Chakri Award (PMCA), Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Gintong Parangal Para sa Edukasyon, and Gabay Guro strengthen educators’ morale and affirm the nation’s respect for their work.
Angara stated that alongside reforms for teachers, each recognition deepens the nation’s respect for their sacrifice and service. He highlighted ongoing improvements in teacher programs to ensure that every reform leads to real classroom improvements, asserting that uplifting teachers ultimately enhances the entire education system.
On October 21, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recognized 10 exemplary teachers, soldiers, and police officers as 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos. He described the awardees as models of integrity and service under the Bagong Pilipino spirit, acknowledging their efforts to transform lives and uplift communities.
DepEd celebrated Teacher Lea Domingo from Luzong Elementary School in Ilocos Norte, who was named this year’s Philippine recipient of the PMCA. Domingo was honored for her pioneering sustainability and environmental education projects that empowered local learners and communities. This biennial award recognizes outstanding teachers in Southeast Asia who demonstrate exceptional dedication to education and human development, especially among disadvantaged groups.
Angara also praised the Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Gintong Parangal Para sa Edukasyon for promoting values of hard work, discipline, and excellence among educators. In its 14th year, this award honored 18 outstanding education workers across three categories: Paglilingkod (Service) for non-teaching personnel, Pamumuno (Leadership) for education leaders, and Guro (Teachers).
DepEd acknowledged the Gabay Guro Foundation for its ongoing support in empowering teachers through scholarships, digital training, and livelihood programs. Angara expressed gratitude to PLDT Inc. and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan and Gabay Guro Chairperson Chaye Revilla for their advocacy for teacher welfare and development. He emphasized that recognizing teachers reminds the nation that progress begins in the classroom and strengthens the foundations of Philippine education.
