Insider Spotlight
Dr. George S.K. Ty, founder of Metrobank, noticed that a university professor who had served as a judge in the Metrobank Foundation’s painting competition had no ride home. The moment exposed the quiet sacrifices of Filipino educators and led to the launch of the Search for Outstanding Teachers.
Over time, the program expanded under Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto Sobrepeña to include The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers in 1999 and The Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service in 2000.
In 2017, the three were unified as the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, now considered the country’s most prestigious career-service award.
Four decades on, 725 teachers, soldiers, and police officers form a growing alumni community.
On Jan. 31, 2025, more than 160 awardees gathered at the GT Auditorium of Manila Tytana Colleges in Pasay City for a homecoming that underscored the program’s institutional impact.
A moral anchor for institutions
PLTGEN Edgar Alano Okubo, deputy chief for operations of the Philippine National Police and president of the alumni group PROTECT, described the award as a "moral anchor" for officers in uniform.
He said the recognition must be repaid through continued servant leadership and ethical conduct, reinforcing institutional culture within the police force.
By honoring those who uplift communities, the foundation helps ensure that officers remain stewards of justice and protectors of peace.
When excellence becomes a vow
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. called the award a "statement of trust" and reminded fellow soldiers that "That responsibility of service continues until the day we die."
Citing everyday acts of integrity, he emphasized that nation-building is anchored in discipline, accountability, and personal responsibility.
For the Armed Forces, the recognition strengthens a culture of honor that extends beyond active duty.
‘Us for others’ in education reform
Dr. Ernelea P. Cao, president of the Network of Outstanding Teachers and Educators, described the alumni as a multi-sectoral community driven by a shared vision of “Us for Others.”
The Department of Education has tapped awardees to lead reforms, including mental health and systems improvement initiatives.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara reminded honorees, "Remember always that at one time you upheld the very best standards of your profession."
A fellowship of renewal
The evening blended tribute and tradition, honoring 60 departed awardees while celebrating cultural heritage through music and indigenous dance.
Beyond ceremony, the event reinforced the Foundation’s long-term thesis: individual excellence, when institutionalized, strengthens governance.
As a new batch of honorees prepares to join the roster this year, the Metrobank Foundation’s model demonstrates how private-sector recognition can embed integrity and compassion into the country’s most critical public institutions. —Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
