Co-Sponsorship Speech of Senator Loren Legarda | Resolution Commending and Congratulating the 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos |September 10, 2025

Mr. President, distinguished colleagues,

It is with great honor that I rise today to co-sponsor the Resolution commending and congratulating the 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos.

Every year, this recognition reminds us that true public service is alive in the everyday acts of our teachers, our soldiers, and our police officers who carry out their duties with integrity, courage, and compassion.

This year’s awardees, educators who nurture young minds, soldiers who safeguard our sovereignty, and police officers who ensure peace and order, embody the finest values of service to the nation.

At a time when public institutions are often met with skepticism, the lives and work of these ten outstanding Filipinos serve as beacons of hope. We are reminded that dedication, excellence, and selflessness can restore confidence in our systems and inspire others to follow their lead.

They are not only models of competence and courage, but also role models of how true service should be rendered: with integrity, humility, and compassion. As we honor them, let us be reminded that our own mandate as public servants springs from the same well of trust: the Filipino people. Our highest loyalty is not to power or position, but to those we are sworn to serve.

On behalf of this chamber, I join my colleagues in celebrating their exemplary contributions to our country. May their example continue to inspire future generations of public servants to serve with honor, humility, and love for our people.

Congratulations to our teachers, Noel V. Sadinas, Amando Perfecto C. Molin, Mylene M. Uy, and Dr. Angelo Mark P. Walag; the soldiers, Underwater Operationsman First Class Anro Anthony M. Turallo, Colonel Ricky L. Canatoy, and Colonel Joey T. Fontiveros; and police officers: Police Master Sergeant Ivan A. Velasco, Police Major Elmira A. Relox, and Police Colonel Frederick E. Obar.

Maraming salamat po sa inyong dedikasyon at serbisyo!

Thank you, Mr. President.