Awards and recognitions serve as symbols of excellence, perseverance, and dedication. In the Philippine education system, the Department of Education (DepEd) ensures that academic achievements and other distinctions are properly recognized through well-defined award specifications. These awards uphold the prestige of student accomplishments and maintain uniformity across schools.
What Do Awardees Receive?
Grade-level awardees receive certificates, medals, and/or plaques that bear the official seal of DepEd, as per DepEd Order No. 63, s.2011. Schools are required to follow specific guidelines to ensure the quality and consistency of these awards.
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Certificates – Given to all awardees, indicating the specific award received. These must be well-prepared with attention to detail, including correct proportions, the date, and the venue of the school ceremony.
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Medals – Awarded for individual excellence in various categories, with clear specifications on size, weight, and ribbon color.
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Plaques – Given to clubs or organizations that achieve outstanding performance, while individual members receive certificates.
Specifications of Awards and Medals
DepEd has standardized the medal and plaque specifications to maintain the integrity and prestige of the awards. Below are the details:
1. Academic Excellence Award
Students who achieve outstanding academic performance receive medals based on their level of distinction:
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With Highest Honors: Gold Medal (Diameter: 6cm, Weight: 30g, Ribbon width: 1 inch, Ribbon color varies by region)
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With High Honors: Silver Medal
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With Honors: Bronze Medal
2. Award for Leadership
Recognizing students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills:
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Gold Medal with the DepEd seal (Diameter: 6cm, Weight: 30g, Ribbon width: 1 inch, Ribbon color: Gold)
3. Award for Work Immersion
Given to students who excel in their work immersion programs:
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Gold Medal with the DepEd seal (Diameter: 5cm, Weight: 25g, Ribbon width: 1 inch, Ribbon color varies by region)
4. Award for Research/Innovation
For students who have made significant contributions in research or innovation:
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Gold Medal
5. Award for Outstanding Performance in Specific Learning Areas
Awarded to students who excel in particular subjects or disciplines:
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Gold Medal
6. Award for Club or Organization Achievement
For clubs and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional achievements:
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Plaque for the club/organization
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Certificate for each member, featuring the school logo
Ensuring Quality and Compliance
To maintain the prestige of these awards, schools must:
✅ Follow DepEd’s specifications for medals and certificates
✅ Coordinate with external sponsors, donors, and partners regarding awards
✅ Use specific rubrics prepared or adapted by the Awards Committee (AC) at the school level
By adhering to these guidelines, schools uphold the integrity and honor associated with each award, ensuring that students' hard work and dedication are properly recognized.
Final Thoughts
Receiving an award is not just about the medal or certificate—it is a testament to a student’s dedication, perseverance, and excellence. These recognitions serve as motivation for students to strive harder and inspire others to do the same. By maintaining high standards in award-giving, DepEd ensures that every achievement is celebrated with honor and distinction. 🎖️🎓