Gathering the best and the brightest
Once again, the Metrobank Foundation did a wonderful job in gathering the best and brightest among those that serve, and giving them the recognition they fully deserve. For the first time in its history, the Conferment Ceremonies took place online; but despite the pandemic’s prevalence, it was a festive occasion that did not lose any luster for happening virtually.
Barbie Atienza and Menchie Sivestre co-hosted the online event, and welcoming all to the event was Metrobank & Metrobank Foundation Chairman and CEO Arthur Ty. The Outstanding Filipinos program has always been about honoring Teachers, Soldiers, and Police Officers. As Mr. Ty was proud to note, it’s about how educators play such a special role during these challenging times, it’s about the dedication of our Armed Forces, and how they collaborate with communities to enhance their presence, and it’s about our police officers safeguarding the welfare of the citizens who offer them their trust.
Chairing the Selection Committee this year are Senator Nancy Binay-Angeles, and Associate Justice Rosemari Carandang. They were joined by Representative Junie Cua, Alicia delaRoas-Bala of the Civil Service Commission, Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso, CEO of Alliance Global Inc. Kevin Andrew Tan, and Barbie Atienza, as President of the United Print Media Group. These judges were introduced to us by Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña.
And let’s meet the Awardees—four Educators, three members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and three Police Officers. I’ve put some random screen shots of three of the awardees, but that isn’t any reflection of who’s more deserving, as all ten have incredible stories, and you can head to the Metrobank Foundation social media platforms to learn more about the ten, or at (www.mbfoundation.org.ph).
Each awardee will receive a cash prize of P1 Million, a Golden medallion, the Flame trophy - joining the ranks of the 675 awardees that have been honored over the last 36 years. For this 2021, the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos are:
In Education: Ms. Lou Sabrina Ongkiko, Mr. Jason Albaro, Dr. Minerva Calimag, and Dr. Iris Isip-Tan.
From the AFP: Tech. Sergeant Jake Belino PAF, Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling PA, and Col. August Padua PAF.
From the Police: P/Senior Master Sergeant Mary Joy Ylanan, P/Lt. Col. Gerard Ace Pelare, and P/Lt. Col. Jonathan Pablito.
What was unanimous to note is how all ten have taken on the mantle of being instruments for social progress and change. How even in the face of adversity, given the COVID crisis, these ten used their positions to effect and amplify good works.