Two public school teachers were recognized for their exceptional service, innovation, and community impact at the 2026 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos Awards, with Education Secretary Sonny Angara honoring their contributions to transforming the lives of Filipino learners.
Dr. Emmanuel D. Guarde, Master Teacher III at Cornelio Lintawagin Memorial Elementary School in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, and Engr. Sheila Marie M. Amigo, Master Teacher I at Siay National High School in Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay, were among the 10 outstanding public servants recognized by the Metrobank Foundation this year.
Angara, who co-presented the awards alongside Metrobank senior management, praised the educators for taking their mission beyond the classroom and creating meaningful change in their communities.
“Ang ating mga guro ang puso at pundasyon ng ating sistema ng edukasyon,” Angara said, emphasizing that the work of Guarde and Amigo demonstrates how compassionate and innovative teaching can uplift not only learners but entire communities.
A member of the Alangan Mangyan indigenous community, Guarde has dedicated 17 years to advancing culture-based education. He developed localized early-grade learning resources and the Mangyan Alangan Community-Based Competencies framework to make education more relevant to indigenous learners.
His advocacy also reaches beyond academics. Guarde helped establish a primary school, solar lighting, and basic facilities in the remote Sitio Begnay. He also launched an adult education and livelihood program that provides community members with functional literacy and vocational skills while encouraging parents to become more active partners in their children’s education.
Meanwhile, Amigo has transformed the way Physics is taught through DULA (Dynamic Utilization of Learning by Amusement), an innovative approach that uses low-cost, hands-on activities to make Science lessons more engaging and accessible.
Her initiative produced notable results, raising learner test scores from an average of 22.67% to 70.40% following the intervention.
What began as a classroom strategy has since gained support at the district and division levels, while her DULA Eco Havens initiative has expanded hands-on learning opportunities into local barangays.
For Amigo, the most meaningful reward is seeing learners gain confidence in subjects they once found intimidating.
Angara reaffirmed the Department of Education’s commitment to strengthening teacher welfare and professional development, ensuring that educators who dedicate themselves to Filipino learners receive the support and recognition they deserve.
Aside from the two public school teachers, the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos Awards also recognized two higher education professors, three military officers, and three police officers. Each awardee received a ₱1-million cash prize, the Metrobank Foundation “Flame” trophy, and a Medallion of Excellence.
Established in 1985 by the late Metrobank Group Chairman Dr. George S.K. Ty, the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos program is one of the country’s most prestigious career-service awards. It has honored more than 700 public servants who exemplify integrity, excellence, and dedication to nation-building.
