The Schools Division Office of Calamba City lauded the 27 finalists of the 2024 Gawad Calambayani in the different award categories for teaching, non-teaching, and teaching-related personnel at Summit Ridge Hotel, Tagaytay City, on May 20, 2025.

In her message, SDS Merthel M. Evardome, CESO V, emphasized that Gawad Calambayani is more than just a ceremony of awarding rings, plaques, and cash incentives, as “this is a moment to reflect on and draw inspiration from the silent heroism embedded in the daily work of our SDO personnel.”

SDS Evardome highlighted the vital role of the PRAISE Committee and its Subcommittee, expressing gratitude for their diligent efforts in reviewing and evaluating the nominations submitted for this year’s awards.

She called on everyone to embody the qualities of a true public servant, such as integrity, dedication, and compassion, not just during awarding ceremonies but throughout their professional lives.

She also encouraged the awardees to aspire for even greater heights by participating in the honor awards given by the Civil Service Commission, affirming that the Division fully supports their journey toward national recognition.

Director IV of the Civil Service Commission Maria Leticia G. Reyna lauded the dedication and resilience of SDO Calamba City’s teaching and non-teaching personnel, recognizing not just their achievements, but the inspiring journey behind each honor.

She provided a historical context for the recognition program, tracing its roots back to Memorandum Circular No. 48, s. 1992, issued by the Civil Service Commission on December 8, 1992.

This initiative was later enhanced in 1999 through MC No. 1, which introduced revised guidelines on the conferment of human resource recognition and awards, eventually evolving into what is now known as PRAISE (Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence) under the PRIME-HRM (Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management).

Director Reyna commended DepEd Calamba for being at the forefront of this initiative. She proudly highlighted that DepEd Calamba is the first Schools Division Office in the province of Laguna to receive the Bronze Award, expressing her hopes that it will also be the first in the province to achieve Silver.

Acknowledging the persistent challenges in the education sector, City Mayor Roseller “Ross” H. Rizal emphasized his deep appreciation for the sacrifices and determination shown by teachers, school heads, and education workers across Calamba.

Mayor Rizal paid tribute to the dedication and perseverance of the city’s education personnel, whom he described as the “unsung heroes” behind the successes of Calambeño youth.

The mayor underscored the transformative impact of every research output, innovation, and classroom effort, and highlighted how these contributions fuel the city’s forward momentum.

Looking forward, Mayor Rizal reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to advancing its support for education.

He also rallied all stakeholders to uphold inclusive and equitable education, grounded in compassion and felt impact.

Meanwhile, as a token of appreciation for the exemplary performance of the finalists, the awardees received a plaque of recognition with a medallion, a Ring of Excellence, and cash prizes.