DepEd honors teachers, learners, citizens as everyday heroes of education

The Department of Education (DepEd) has recognized teachers, learners, and education stakeholders whose quiet but consistent efforts helped keep classrooms running, supported learners, and ensured that education reforms took root on the ground.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted these often-unseen contributors, describing them as the quiet heroes of education whose behind-the-scenes dedication allows schools and learners to thrive.

The DepEd Heroes recognition honors individuals and groups whose actions may not have made headlines but made a tangible difference in schools and communities nationwide.

Since its first awarding ceremony on 14 August, the program has recognized 12 individuals, including seven teachers, six learners, and three private citizens. Each honoree was cited for a specific act of service reflecting the values DepEd aims to strengthen across the education system.

Among those recognized were seven teachers whose daily choices, personal sacrifices, and quiet leadership sustained learning even under difficult circumstances.

Since 2012, Grace Bohol has served a remote community in Samar, walking for hours through mud and floodwaters just to reach her school. Beyond showing up, she built literacy programs, secured scholarships for learners, and transformed open grounds into safer playgrounds and learning spaces.

Marivic Villacampa continued teaching two classes while undergoing chemotherapy, choosing presence over rest and remaining a source of strength for her students during her battle with cancer.

When an earthquake struck, Grade 6 teacher Elmer Sugarol carried a learner with mobility challenges down three flights of stairs, prioritizing her safety amid the chaos.

In Bulacan, Lorlita Lubao braved months-long flooding to reach her Grade 1 classroom, refusing to let harsh conditions disrupt her pupils’ right to learn.

Ma. Lourdes Rola of Caloocan High School was recognized for bringing Philippine education to the global stage through the Korea-Philippines Teacher Exchange Programme and for leading cultural initiatives such as SALIN-KULTURA and LET IT GROW.

In Laguna, Mary Jane Reodica launched the L.A.L.A. Project, equipping ALS learners with practical skills such as baking, weaving, and meat processing, opening pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.

At C.P. Sta. Teresa Elementary School in Taguig City, Erik Jims Bongon transformed unused school spaces into a thriving Gulayan sa Paaralan, teaching more than 200 students annually the value of sustainable agriculture while helping sustain the school’s feeding program.

The recognition also highlighted learners whose courage and presence of mind emerged in moments of crisis.

During an earthquake, Mark Borila and his classmates Marco Alegro, Jared Allicaya, John Vincent Teñido, and Christian Jay Maglasang of the Davao del Norte Regional Sports Academy worked together to carry an injured classmate to safety.

In Cebu, 15-year-old Jayboy Magdadaro of Jubay Integrated School rescued more than 50 residents during Typhoon Tino, navigating floodwaters using only a small boat and a life vest, and declining any reward for his actions.

DepEd also honored private citizens whose voluntary efforts strengthened schools beyond formal roles or obligations.

Mommy Dea Solayao, a parent-volunteer at Maybancal Elementary School, was recognized for sustaining storytelling initiatives that nurtured children’s love for reading since the pandemic.

Atty. Blake Feken was cited for leading a pro bono initiative that helps secure land titles for public schools nationwide, ensuring learners study in permanent and protected spaces.

In Southern Leyte, Capt. Edcel Viraque, a Master Mariner, was honored for personally helping improve school facilities where his wife teaches, including building classrooms and donating equipment.

Looking ahead, DepEd said it will continue recognizing and supporting everyday heroes in 2026 to strengthen a culture where service is acknowledged and valued.

“With every story we honor, we hope more acts of kindness and dedication will follow. The ripple effects of these heroes will continue into the new year, touching even more lives and communities,” Angara added.