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Honest airport janitor hailed as hero in Bulacan

Philippines | Metro Manila

Honest airport janitor hailed as hero in Bulacan

By Freddie Velez

A 48-year-old janitor at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) was hailed as a hero and an outstanding Bulakenyo for his honesty.

Ronald Gadayan, known as the "honest NAIA janitor" from Norzagaray, Bulacan, was treated to a free shopping spree at the SM Store in Marilao, Bulacan on National Heroes Day, August 26, 2024. (Freddie Velez)

Ronald Gadayan, a resident of Norzagaray, Bulacan, was honored during the National Heroes Day celebration at SM Store in Marilao, Bulacan on Monday, August 26.

The event, dubbed "A Day in the Mall," aimed to recognize and reward residents who have demonstrated exceptional honesty by returning lost valuable items or money.

To celebrate his remarkable honesty, Gadayan and his family were given gift certificates that they can use for grocery shopping, dining, watching movies and amusement at the SM mall.

Last month, Gadayan returned P17,000 and other valuable items left by a Chinese businessman at the airport.

In 2012, he was recognized for returning a significant sum of money and items left behind by passengers, including P2.4 million, a wad of cash worth 5,000 dollar, and a bag containing over P600,000 in cash and valuables.

He has received several notable accolades, including "Asia's Man of Exceptional Community Service," "Honest Filipino," and "Inspiring Hero of the Year" at the Asia's Humanitarian Hero Awards 2024.

He was also honored as "A Man of Compassion and Most Trusted Employee of the Year" at the Dakilang Filipino Awards 2024, and received the "Bagong Bayani Award" from the Office of the Ombudsman in 2019.

In 2013, the province of Bulacan passed a resolution recognizing his honesty and awarded him the "Gawad Katapatan."

In 2012, he was named Outstanding Citizen by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle.

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