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The Department of Education (DepEd) expressed appreciation to various organizations that continue to honor outstanding Filipino teachers, including the Metrobank Foundation, Princess Maha Chakri Award (PMCA), Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Gintong Parangal Para sa Edukasyon, and Gabay Guro, saying these recognitions strengthen teacher morale and affirm the nation’s respect for their work.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said these partnerships reflect a shared commitment to uphold teaching as a noble and transformative profession, especially as the government continues to strengthen reforms that address long-standing challenges in education.

“Kasabay ng ating reporma para sa kaguruan, bawat pagkilalang ibinibigay sa ating mga guro ay nagpapalalim ng paggalang ng bayan sa kanilang sakripisyo at paglilingkod,” Angara said. “We are improving teacher programs, and ensuring that every reform leads to real improvements for their classrooms. Because when we lift up our teachers, we lift up the entire education system.”

President Marcos honors Metrobank awardees

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently led the awarding of the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos in Malacañan Palace, recognizing ten exceptional teachers, soldiers, and police officers who embody the spirit of the Bagong Pilipino.

“It is always with the greatest pride, honor, and pleasure that I honor the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos because you are exemplary individuals who have gone the extra mile to transform lives and uplift communities,” the President said.

“Mga kababayan, ipinakita ninyo na ang tunay na paglilingkod sa bayan ay hindi nasusukat sa katayuan sa lipunan, kundi sa layuning maghatid ng pagbabago sa ating mga kababayan,” he added. “Kayo ang mukha ng Bagong Pilipino: matapat, may paninindigan, at buong pusong naghahatid ng serbisyo sa kapwa Pilipino.”

Ilocos Norte teacher wins 2025 Princess Maha Chakri Award

DepEd also lauded Teacher Lea Domingo of Luzong Elementary School of SDO Ilocos Norte, who was named this year’s Philippine recipient of the Princess Maha Chakri Award (PMCA).

The award is given biennially to outstanding teachers in Southeast Asia who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to education and human development, particularly among disadvantaged communities. It also honors Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand for her contributions to education in the region.

Domingo was recognized for her innovative pro-environment and sustainability projects. She joins five other Filipino educators who have previously received the international distinction.

Gintong Parangal: Honoring hard work and discipline

Sec. Angara also honored the awardees of the Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Gintong Parangal Para sa Edukasyon, a recognition program inspired by the long-running “Value of Hard Work and Discipline” advocacy campaign jointly spearheaded by Fortune Life Insurance Company and Marylindbert International.

This year, a total of 18 outstanding education workers were recognized across three categories: five non-teaching personnel under Paglilingkod, five education leaders under Pamumuno, and eight teachers under Guro, including honorable mentions.

Now on its 14th year, the program continues to promote values that drive academic excellence, professional growth, and national development.

Gabay Guro: Heroes of Learning, Builders of Tomorrow

DepEd also acknowledged the Gabay Guro Foundation, a long-time partner of the Department in empowering and supporting teachers. The foundation recently concluded its Grand Gathering of Teachers in Pasig City, bringing together educators under the theme “Our Teachers: Heroes of Learning, Builders of Tomorrow.”

Secretary Angara commended PLDT Inc. and Metro Pacific and Investment Corporation Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan and Gabay Guro Chairperson Chaye Revilla for their enduring commitment to uplifting teachers’ welfare and championing education reform.

“When we recognize our teachers, we remind the nation that progress begins in the classroom,” Angara said. “Through these partnerships, we not only uplift educators but also strengthen the foundations of Philippine education.”

*All Photos from DepEd