Dr. Mary Ann M. Palencia is a distinguished educator, researcher, and community leader with over 22 years of teaching experience across the Philippines and the United States. Hailing from Balingayan, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, she has dedicated her career to making science accessible, engaging, and inclusive—especially for “at-promise” learners in trauma-informed schools.

Si Atty. Ester A. Futalan ay isang dedikado at huwarang tagapaglingkod sa larangan ng edukasyon at batas. Nagtapos siya noong 1994 sa Philippine Normal University Agusan Campus (na ngayon ay Mindanao Campus) ng kursong Batsilyer sa Edukasyong Pang-elementarya na may espesyalisasyon sa Ingles. Bilang mag-aaral, naging aktibo siyang pinuno at ginawaran ng Gantimpala sa Pamumuno.

Dr. Margarito B. Materum, CESO V, stands as a beacon of transformative leadership in the Philippine education sector. A proud product of the Philippine Normal University (PNU), Dr. Materum’s journey has been shaped by the institution’s enduring values of truth, excellence, and service, values he has since carried into every role and responsibility throughout his distinguished career. His commitment to quality education and visionary leadership has left a lasting imprint on the institutions and communities he has served.

Ms. Aurora Marcellana Pagulayan is an accomplished educator and leader with over four decades of experience in the field of education. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the Philippine Normal College (now Philippine Normal University) in 1965, graduating Magna Cum Laude and receiving the prestigious Princess Urduja Leadership Award. Her academic journey continued with a fellowship that enabled her to pursue a Master of Science in Education at Bucknell University, Pennsylvania (1967–1968).

Dr. Efren D. Lumawag’s journey is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and generosity. A distinguished physicist, educator, and entrepreneur, he has dedicated his life not only to academic excellence but also to uplifting others through his unwavering commitment to service.

For over four decades, Ms. Jocelyn “Bubbles” F. Villegas has been a steadfast pillar in public service, shaping government operations with her leadership, expertise, and unwavering dedication. As Director IV of the Presidential Engagements Office under the Presidential Management Staff (PMS), she plays a crucial role in coordinating high-profile engagements and initiatives that contribute to the seamless execution of presidential activities. Her meticulous planning and strategic vision have significantly enhanced government efficiency and public trust.

Erlinda “Linda” Reyes Stone’s journey from a teacher in the Philippines to a trailblazing entrepreneur in the United States showcases the transformative power of education and resilience. A graduate of Philippine Normal College with a degree in Elementary Education, Linda began her career in teaching before migrating to the U.S. in 1968. There, she pursued further education, worked in corporate America, and eventually founded APR Consulting, Inc. in 1980. What started as a modest IT staffing firm grew under her leadership into a nationally recognized company, navigating major economic and technological shifts while empowering thousands of professionals.

Dr. Evelyn de Asis Natividad, a distinguished alumna from the Class of 1969, stands as a powerful advocate for the Filipino community, both in the United States and the Philippines. Serving as President of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), Midwest Region, and President of the Philippine Engineers and Scientists Organization (PESO) for 2023-2025, Dr. Natividad combines vision and action to uplift communities and foster unity.

Dr. Michael Sta. Juana’s career has taken him from classrooms in the Philippines to leadership roles in the United States, all the while fueled by an unshakeable dedication to education. With a rich history of academic and community service, his journey is a testament to the power of teaching and leadership to change lives.

Dr. Ernesto S. Pamolarco Jr. has built an impressive career in education, marked by resilience and dedication. Originally from Jubay, Calubian, Leyte, he overcame financial challenges early in life by working in Manila to fund his education. His efforts led to his graduation with honors from the Naval Institute of Technology in 1989, earning a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English and Mathematics.

Mr. Tito M. Tejada is a distinguished professional with significant achievements in both education and financial management. Due to his robust academic foundation, he embodies dedication, versatility, and leadership. Mr. Tejada earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the Philippine Normal College in 1970, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Far Eastern University in 1980. His commitment to further education is evidenced by his Master of Arts in Administration and Supervision, equipping him with essential leadership skills.

Prof. Edna Imelda Fernandez-Legazpi, fondly known as Prof. Mae Legazpi, stands as a beacon of educational excellence and leadership. Currently, she holds the distinguished positions of Director IV at the Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS) and Focal Person of the Gender and Development Office (GAD) at the Commission on Higher Education. Her journey from a dedicated student to an influential leader in education is nothing short of inspiring.

Dr. Imelda N. Sabornido, a visionary leader dedicated to advancing excellence in education, stands as a prominent alumna of the Philippine Normal University-Mindanao and a distinguished recipient of the 2021 PNU Gawad Sulo for Eminent Alumni. With over a decade of experience in educational leadership within the Department of Education, Dr. Sabornido has consistently demonstrated her capacity to drive positive change and enhance academic outcomes in every Schools Division she has led. Her contributions to education have left a lasting mark, showcasing her commitment to fostering a better future through learning.

MS. ZENAIDA SAAVEDRA MASANGKAY LYLES is a dedicated Grants Specialist at the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) located in Pendleton, Oregon. With a steadfast commitment to securing resources for community advancement, Zenaida has successfully secured substantial funding totaling $2.6 million, including $2.1 million for drone pilot training and $500,000.00 for the renovation of a childcare center.

Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino’s academic journey is marked by a strong commitment to excellence and continuous growth. After graduating from the Philippine Normal University North Luzon Campus in 1991 with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, he embarked on a path of lifelong learning that culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the same institution in 2010. Alongside his academic pursuits, he obtained a Bachelor of Law degree in 2004, showcasing his multidisciplinary approach to education. Furthermore, Dr. Aquino’s dedication to leadership development is evident in his completion of the global academic leadership program at the Asian Institute of Management in 2021-2022 and the Command and General Staff Course at the Command and General Staff College in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, in 2022.

DR. MARITA RANA CANAPI is a Commissioner of the Commission of Higher Education. She brings with her long years of rich engagement in higher education as well as her wisdom in educational leadership and her desire for quality and excellence in education.

An innovator in the realm of education, Dr. San Andres, a distinguished graduate with a Doctorate Degree in Linguistics and Literature from the Philippine Normal University (PNU) in 2000, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, management, and teaching skills. His achievements have not only brought honor to himself but have also enhanced the prestige of his Alma Mater.