Pinoy educators honored in US event

NEW YORK - Filipino educators serving in many parts of the world were given recognition on Saturday by the United Federation of Filipino-American Educators (UNIFFIED).

In an awards ceremony held at a hotel in Flushing, Queens, New York, UNIFFIED gave the Outstanding Leadership in Education award to Dr. Rommel Sergio of Dubai, Dr. Maria Jade Opulencia of United Arab Emirates, Juan Carlos Antonio of Thailand, Dr. Judilyn Solidum of Manila, Aireen Arbis and Dr. Crisanto Avila of Cavite, Loida Nartates of Los Angeles, California, and Dr. Ma. Nesga Provido.

Recognized as Influential Teacher meanwhile were Melba Acantilado of New Mexico, USA and Jonathan Garcia of Los Angeles, California.

The Gawad Ulirang Guro on the other hand was awarded to Mark Escobar of North Carolina, Catalina Suerte of New Jersey, and Dr. Gilmore Solidum from the Philippines.

Also cited for Outstanding Leadership in Public Service was Nelson San Juan, the first Filipino named as deputy commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development of the State of Alaska. San Juan graduated from Adamson University with a B.A. in Economics degree. He has been working for the State of Alaska for the past 23 years.

UNIFFIED also gave the Outstanding Leadership in Public Service Award to Florente Coronel, Atty. Angelita Cordova Hayes, and Dr. Rosalinda Bajolo of New York.

New York Consul General Elmer Cato, who handed over the awards to the recipients, said he salutes the Filipino teachers for their great service in the field of education away from their homeland.

The awards ceremony was part of the Unified International Summit held in New York City, which was attended by Filipino educators from many parts of the world. —Dave Llavanes Jr./KG, GMA News