Manila: An Administrative Aide VI from the Department of Science and Technology - Western Visayas (DOST-6) has been awarded the highest honor for government workers during the Pagpupugay 2025: Parangal sa mga Lingkod Bayan at Malaca±an Palace on Wednesday. Cornelio Mabera was honored with the 2025 Gawad Lingkod Bayani Award by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., along with Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Marilyn Barua-Yap, CSC Commissioner Ryan Alvin Acosta, and CSC Commissioner Luis Meinrado Pa±gulayan.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mabera began his more than 35-year career in public service with DOST-6 as a job order utility staff/messenger in 1989 and transitioned to a driver in 1991 due to his driving skills. He pursued a one-year night school vocational degree in automotive mechanics and underwent training in automotive preventive maintenance and electrical servicing through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
Mabera played a key role in supervising the repair and maintenance of DOST vehicles, often conducting repairs in-house rather than outsourcing to repair shops. His technical skills extended beyond automotive technology to include welding, mechanical and electrical systems, plumbing, painting, construction work, and gardening, enabling him to contribute to the overall maintenance of office facilities and equipment while offering practical solutions to workplace challenges.
In 2024, Mabera was promoted to Administrative Aide VI and appointed as assistant head of the General Services Section, in addition to his full-time driving responsibilities. For his achievements, he received a trophy, a gold-gilded medallion from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, a PHP200,000 cash prize, and an automatic promotion to the next higher position or an equivalent salary increase.
"DOST Western Visayas extends its warmest congratulations to Mr. Mabera for this well-deserved recognition. His dedication, integrity, and exemplary service continue to inspire his colleagues and reflect the true spirit of public service, bringing pride and honor to the entire DOST family and the region," the DOST stated.
