President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he hopes the 10 teachers, policemen and soldiers, who received the 2026 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos award for their exceptional public service and contribution in nation-building, will inspire other public servants to excel in public service.
He said the awardees not only helped in advancing the priorities of his administration in education, security, and defense, but also in transforming the lives of other Filipinos.
‘Each chose a life of service and remained committed to it throughout all these years,’ Marcos said in his speech during the awarding ceremony held in Malacañang last Tuesday.
‘And the value of that service can be seen in what they leave behind: stronger institutions, safer communities, [and] lives changed for the better,’ he added.
The four teachers, who were given the award were Dr. Emmanuel D. Guarde of Naujan, Oriental Mindoro; Master Teacher Sheila Marie M. Amigo of Siay; Zamboanga Sibugay, Dr. Cecilia O. Bucayong of Maramag, Bukidnon; and Dr. Jefferson A. Hora of Iligan, Lanao Del Norte,
Marcos said they exemplified the government’s efforts to prioritize enhancing the quality of basic education through the development of ‘culturally responsive learning tools, new approaches to physics education, and advancing emerging technologies through innovative research.’
The military awardees were Staff Sergeant Joebelle O. Cerdinio of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay; Staff Sergeant John Daren P. Noche of Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte; and Lieutenant Colonel Rommel M. Geli.
They were given the award for creating digital platforms to strengthen coordination among government agencies, and enhancing maritime awareness and operational preparedness in the West Philippine Sea.
Also given the award were Police Master Sergeant Dwight Alexis B. Supsupin, Police Major Baby Rose P. Cajulao, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Robert R. Mansueto.
Their public safety innovations include guiding young people away from crime, strengthening the role of women in anti-drug efforts, and using digital systems and timely data to improve road safety.
‘In many ways, the work of our honorees reflects the larger initiatives of the government in supporting our teachers who help our youth, strengthening the capabilities of those who protect us, and giving our [police] the right tools to keep us safe,’ Marcos said.
Created in 1985, Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos award gives recognition to outstanding teachers, soldiers and police engaged in public service. Its winners each receive P1 million, a trophy and the Medallion of Excellence conferred by the President.