MANILA, Philippines — The Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) has announced the winners of the search for the 2024 Outstanding Filipinos.
The accolade, hailed as the most prestigious career-service award in the Philippines, recognizes exemplary individuals from academe, the military and the police sectors who have significantly made an impact in their communities and the nation.
Since its inception in 1985 by the late Metrobank group founder George S.K. Ty, the program has recognized 715 outstanding public servants, including 384 teachers, 172 soldiers and 159 police officers. With the theme “Beyond Excellence,” MBFI continues this legacy, spotlighting 10 remarkable individuals who exemplify the dedication and integrity of true public service.
The 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teachers are Ma. Ella F. Fabella of the Maasin Learning Center in Zamboanga City; Franco Rino Apoyon of Kabasalan National High School in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay; Decibel Faustino-Eslava of the University of the Philippines Los Baños and Maria Regina Hechanova-Alampay of Ateneo de Manila University.
The 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Soldiers are Capt. Salvador Sambalilo of the Navy; Maj. Ron JR Villarosa of the Army and Staff Sgt. Michael Rayanon of the Navy while the Outstanding Filipino Police Officers are Lt. Col. Bryan Bernardino, police chief at Tacurong City Police Station, Maj. Mark Ronan Balmaceda of the NCRPO and Staff Sgt. Llena Sol-Josefa Jovita of the Cagayan de Oro City Police.
“These outstanding individuals continue to raise the bar of excellence in their respective fields, serving as role models to many, trailblazing in their professions and redefining what going beyond public service is all about,” said MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña.