In a year-end ceremony, the Department of Education (DepEd) under Secretary Sonny Angara honored a dozen individuals whose remarkable dedication has significantly advanced the quality of education across the Philippines. The DepEd Heroes Awards, held on Friday, December 26, 2025, celebrated the often-unseen efforts of seven teachers, six learners, and three private citizens.
Inspiring Stories of Teacher Dedication
Secretary Angara emphasized the profound, far-reaching impact of the honorees' work, describing it as creating a powerful "ripple effect" that benefits public schools and communities nationwide. He expressed hope that recognizing these stories would inspire further acts of kindness and dedication in the new year.
The seven teachers recognized are Grace Bohol, Marivic Villacampa, Elmer Sugarol, Lorlita Lubao, Ma. Lourdes Rola, Mary Jane Reodica, and Erik Jims Bongon. Their collective stories paint a picture of exceptional commitment. Some brave hours of travel through challenging conditions like mud and floodwaters just to reach their schools and advance literacy and scholarship programs. Others have continued their teaching duties while undergoing personal hardships like chemotherapy.
Their resilience extends to ensuring student safety, with some braving natural calamities such as earthquakes and flooding to prevent learning disruption. Beyond the classroom, their impact includes launching practical training for Alternative Learning System (ALS) students to prepare them for employment, pushing for sustainable agriculture to support school feeding programs, and even elevating Philippine education on the international stage through various initiatives.
Courageous Learners and Supportive Partners
The awards also shone a light on young heroes—learners who demonstrated immense courage during emergencies. Recognized for helping rescue classmates during earthquakes and typhoons were Mark Borila, Marco Alegro, Jared Allicaya, John Vincent Teñido, and Christian Jay Maglasang from the Davao del Norte Regional Sports Academy, along with Jayboy Magdadaro from Jubay Integrated School in Cebu.
The vital role of community support was acknowledged through three private stakeholders. The contributions of parent-volunteer Dea Solayao, lawyer Blake Feken, and Master Mariner Capt. Edcel Viraque were celebrated. Their efforts were diverse and impactful, ranging from supporting storytelling programs and providing pro bono legal services to secure land titles for public schools, to the physical construction of classrooms and the upgrading of school facilities.
A Legacy of Service and Inspiration
The 2025 DepEd Heroes Awards serve as a powerful reminder that the foundation of quality education is built not just on policy, but on the daily, often heroic, actions of individuals. From teachers going above and beyond their duty, to students displaying bravery, and community members investing their time and resources, each honoree has contributed to a stronger educational system.
By honoring these 12 individuals, the Department of Education aims to amplify their stories and inspire a continued culture of service, resilience, and community partnership. As Secretary Angara noted, the positive effects of their work are set to extend well into the future, touching countless more lives and shaping a brighter future for learners across the archipelago.
