By Kenneth Marcos 
In a hall filled with public servants from across the region, one name stood out for years of quiet work that helped protect food on Filipino tables. Dr. Ulysses Montojo, a fisheries scientist, was honored not for speeches or politics, but for service that reached fishing communities and consumers alike.
Dr. Montojo, Scientist I and Chief of the Fisheries Postharvest Research and Development Division of the Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI), was named Presidential Lingkod Bayan Regional Winner for the National Capital Region under the 2025 Regional Honor Awards Program.
The recognition was one of the highlights of the Civil Service Commission–NCR’s 3rd Public Service Excellence Forum, held on January 13 and 14, 2026, at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga. The forum gathered outstanding government workers whose efforts improved public service and strengthened trust in government institutions.
The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is one of the highest honors given to individual government employees. It recognizes consistent dedication, professionalism, and integrity in public service. Winners are selected based on the impact of their work on communities and national development.
Dr. Montojo’s work focuses on fisheries postharvest systems—what happens to fish after they are caught. This includes proper handling, storage, processing, and preservation. These steps are critical in a country where fish is a major source of protein for millions of Filipinos.
Poor postharvest practices often lead to spoilage, lower income for fishers, and higher prices for consumers. Through research and development, Dr. Montojo and his team have worked to reduce losses, improve food safety, and increase the value of fishery products.
DA-NFRDI officials said his leadership has helped promote science-based solutions that benefit small-scale fishers, vendors, and consumers. His division supports training programs, technology development, and policy advice aimed at improving the fisheries value chain.
The award also highlights the importance of research in agriculture and fisheries, sectors that directly affect food security and livelihoods. While their work is often behind the scenes, scientists like Dr. Montojo play a key role in ensuring that food reaching markets is safe, affordable, and of good quality.
During the forum, the Civil Service Commission emphasized that honoring public servants is meant to inspire others in government to serve with honesty and dedication. The Lingkod Bayan awards are part of a broader effort to promote excellence and accountability in the public sector.
DA-NFRDI expressed pride in Dr. Montojo’s achievement, noting that the recognition reflects not only his personal commitment but also the agency’s mission to support sustainable fisheries and protect consumers.
For ordinary Filipinos, the impact of such work may not always be visible. But every properly handled fish, every reduced loss after harvest, and every safer product in the market carries the mark of dedicated public service.
As the country continues to face challenges in food supply and nutrition, the recognition of professionals like Dr. Montojo serves as a reminder that good governance often begins with steady, science-driven work done for the public good.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News