Teachers Honored with Dangal ng Bayan Award for 2023
MANILA - Four teachers from different regions of the country were among the ten recipients of the Dangal ng Bayan Award for 2023, which was conferred by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on Tuesday at the MalacaƱang Palace.
The Dangal ng Bayan Award is an award for performance of an extraordinary act or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior under Republic Act No. 6713, otherwise known as the "Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees". It is one of the three categories of the Honor Awards Program (HAP), which is administered by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to recognize outstanding government workers.
The four teachers who received the Dangal ng Bayan Award for 2023 are:
School Principal II Mary Hazel B. Ballena of the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Abra in Bangued, Abra. She was recognized for her leadership and innovation in transforming her school into a model of excellence and inclusivity. She initiated various programs and projects that improved the academic performance, attendance, and participation of her students, especially those from indigenous communities and with special needs. She also fostered a culture of collaboration and accountability among her teachers and staff, and established strong partnerships with stakeholders and local government units.
Special Education Teacher I Gay D. Galdo of DepEd - Division of Davao Oriental in Mati, Davao Oriental. She was honored for her dedication and passion in teaching students with disabilities and special needs. She developed and implemented individualized education plans and instructional materials that catered to the diverse learning styles and abilities of her students. She also advocated for the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, and organized various activities and events that promoted their empowerment and social integration.
Head Teacher III Glenny E. Laping of DepEd Lapu-Lapu Division Office in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. He was commended for his exemplary performance and conduct as a public servant, as well as his innovative initiatives in improving the quality of education in his school. He spearheaded the implementation of various programs and projects that enhanced the learning outcomes and well-being of his students and teachers. Some of these include the establishment of a school-based radio station, a robotics club, a solar-powered computer laboratory, and a community garden.
Master Teacher II Querino D. Lonsagon of DepEd Division of Ozamiz City in Carangan, Ozamiz City. He was lauded for his outstanding achievements and contributions in the field of mathematics education. He authored and co-authored several textbooks and workbooks that were adopted by DepEd and used by thousands of students nationwide. He also mentored and coached numerous students and teachers who excelled in various mathematics competitions and examinations, both locally and internationally.
President Marcos congratulated the awardees and thanked them for their invaluable service to the nation. He also urged all government workers to emulate the examples of the Dangal ng Bayan recipients and uphold the highest standards of public service.