Marcos: Metrobank awardees examples of goodness amid challenging times

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday recognized the awardees of the 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, saying that service wears many faces but is bound with the goal of serving communities and the country.

Marcos bestowed the Medallion of Excellence to the awardees during a special ceremony held at the Heroes Hall, Malacañang Palace. In his speech, Marcos underscored that amid the challenging times the nation is currently facing, the awardees inspire the public to believe in the goodness of mankind.

''At a time when our nation faces many challenges that shake our people’s trust in our institutions, your stories once again give us reason to believe in the goodness of our people. They remind us that integrity and excellence must be at the heart of the work that we all do,'' the President said. 

''And so, we confer these awards at a time when we also confront a difficult question, one that is not lost on any of us. Mapagkakatiwalaan ba ang pamahalaan? (Can we still trust the government?) And to that, I say: Look at these men and women. In their service, you will find your answer,'' Marcos added. 

The President said the awardees are a reminder, “that hope is never lost, that integrity lives in our institutions, that honor still defines what it means to be a Filipino.''

This year’s awardees from the education, military, and law enforcement sectors were recognized for their exceptional dedication to public service.

Joining in the ceremony were Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) Chairman Arthur Ty, GT Capital Holdings Vice Chairman Alfred Ty, and MBFI President Philip Francisco U. Dy.

Marcos said the program has become a beacon of integrity and inspiration, proving that even during the difficult times, there will always be Filipinos who remain committed to public service.

This year’s Ten Outstanding Filipinos who received the Medallion of Excellence include four teachers: Noel Sadinas, who turned a dumpsite into a learning space for indigenous students; Amando Perfecto Molin, whose acts of kindness brought inspiration to students across Southeast Asia; Dr. Mylene Uy, who pioneered natural products research in Mindanao region; and Dr. Angelo Mark Walag, who championed experiential learning and empowered teachers in underserved schools.

The President also awarded some soldiers including Underwater Operationsman First Class Anro Anthony Turallo for his role in reclaiming communities from violent extremism; Colonel Ricky Canatoy for rebuilding war-torn villages; and Colonel Joey Fontiveros for establishing the nation’s first Cyber Battalion.

Marcos also honored Police Master Sergeant Ivan Velasco for initiating community-driven programs that unite law enforcement and environmental protection; Police Major Elmira Relox for restoring the dignity of countless women and children through reintegration efforts; and Police Colonel Frederick Obar for innovative reforms and digital learning system that have transformed police service. —RF, GMA Integrated News