Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led the conferment of the 2025 Gawad Lingkod Bayani, the Philippines’ highest honor for exemplary government workers, on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace on Wednesday, 28 January.

This year’s ceremony recognized 24 individuals and six groups whose outstanding performance, dedication, and innovative contributions to public service have advanced community empowerment, governance reforms, scientific breakthroughs, and national development.

In his message, Recto highlighted that the true measure of public service is reflected in daily work performed with competence, integrity, and dignity, even amid challenges, noise, and pressure.

He also called on government workers to consistently choose what is right, keep their obligation to the nation at the center of their duties, and place the welfare of the people above all else.

The Gawad Lingkod Bayani, led by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), honors government employees and teams for exceptional contributions to the economy, society, and national progress, while upholding the highest ethical standards. 

Awardees receive gold medals, plaques, and cash rewards ranging from P100,000 to P200,000, along with opportunities for scholarships or automatic promotion.

This year’s honorees exemplify the spirit of public service that drives meaningful change and development across the Philippines.