Insider Spotlight
This year's event holds special significance as it marks the 40th anniversary of the prestigious recognition program, coinciding with Metrobank's 63rd anniversary celebration.
Beyond excellence
The awardees, chosen from hundreds of nominations nationwide, embody the theme "Beyond Excellence," recognized not solely for their achievements but for their consistent demonstration of values like commitment, integrity, courage, and compassion in service to others. These qualities, according to Metrobank Foundation, "transcend personal achievement, uplift communities, and inspire generations."
Each recipient received P1 million (net of tax), a golden medallion, and "The Flame" trophy. The awards were presented by Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation chair Arthur Ty, GT Capital Holdings vice chair Alfred Ty, Metrobank president Fabian Dee, and Metrobank Foundation president Philip Francisco Dy, alongside Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chair Dr. Shirley Agrupis.
The 2025 awardees represent three sectors: education, military, and police.
Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teachers
Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Soldiers
Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Police Officers
A legacy of service
Metrobank's Dee emphasized the program's milestone, stating, "As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the most prestigious career service award in the country this year, we celebrate not only the individuals before us but also the four decades of public service excellence and stories that define the Filipino spirit. For forty years, this recognition has honored men and women who have educated minds, safeguarded lives, and nurtured communities, weaving together a legacy of service that continue to strengthen our nation."
Dr. Agrupis, the guest of honor, echoed this sentiment: "This is why the Metrobank Foundation's recognition is so important. It does not merely bestow medals. It holds up standards. It reminds us, at a time when many are losing faith, that the true measure of public service lies not in titles, positions, or surveys, but in lives lived faithfully for others."
Diverse honorees
The 2025 awardees represent three vital sectors: education, military, and police. Speaking on their behalf, Dr. Mylene Uy, a professor from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology and one of the Outstanding Filipino Teachers, remarked, "This recognition is not just a celebration of our individual milestones. It is a reaffirmation of what is possible when passion meets purpose, and when service becomes a lifelong vow-one that helps communities grow stronger, more resilient, and more hopeful for the future."
The selection process included rigorous eligibility screening, document review, field validations, panel interviews, and live teaching demonstrations for educators. The Final Board of Judges was chaired by Supreme Court Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa and co-chaired by Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.
Four decades of impact
These ten individuals join 725 other distinguished Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos recognized since the program's inception in 1985.
— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas
