By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the chandeliers of Malacañang Palace’s Rizal Ceremonial Hall, applause filled the room as public servants from different parts of the country stood side by side. They were not celebrities or politicians, but ordinary Filipinos whose quiet work has created real change in communities, institutions, and public service.
Twelve individuals and groups from various sectors were honored with the Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo, the highest recognition given to outstanding and exemplary public servants, during the Pagpupugay 2025: Parangal sa mga Lingkod Bayani held on January 28, 2026. The awarding ceremony was organized by the Civil Service Commission to recognize integrity, innovation, and dedication in government service.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the conferment of the awards through Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto, who represented him at the ceremony. The awardees included leaders, scientists, and innovators whose work introduced meaningful reforms, strengthened public institutions, and improved the lives of Filipinos through what officials described as Puso, Dangal, at Galing para sa Bayan.
In a message read by Executive Secretary Recto, President Marcos highlighted the critical role of public servants in delivering effective and humane government services. He said that behind every successful program and public service is the hard work and compassion of dedicated civil servants.
“In every program implemented and every service delivered, we see the diligence and care of public servants like you. You are proof that the spirit of honest and excellent service remains alive in our government,” the President said in his message.
The Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo is awarded to individuals and groups who demonstrate exceptional performance and ethical conduct in public service. Recipients are chosen for initiatives that go beyond routine duties and produce measurable, positive impact on communities and governance.
According to the Civil Service Commission, this year’s awardees represent a wide range of sectors, reflecting the diverse challenges faced by the country. Their contributions include policy reforms, scientific and technological innovations, and community-based programs that respond to real needs on the ground. Many of these efforts were carried out despite limited resources, showing resilience and creativity in public service.
The CSC noted that recognizing exemplary public servants helps promote a culture of excellence and accountability in government. By highlighting good examples, the commission hopes to inspire other government workers to pursue reforms and innovations that benefit the public.
The ceremony also served as a reminder that public service is not only about positions or titles, but about impact. For many of the awardees, the recognition was seen as validation of years of dedication, often behind the scenes, and a motivation to continue serving with integrity.
In recent years, the government has pushed for improved efficiency, transparency, and trust in public institutions. Officials said honoring outstanding civil servants supports these goals by showing that ethical and effective service is valued and rewarded.
As the program concluded, the message was clear. Strong institutions are built by committed people. The Lingkod Bayan awardees stand as examples of how public service, when done with heart and excellence, can bring lasting change to the nation.
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