MANILA -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday, September 9, hailed the 2022 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, saying he is deeply honored in recognizing the foundation’s exemplary Filipinos who made noteworthy contributions to society.

“On behalf of a proud nation, I congratulate and thank all of you for your outstanding service to the country. Congratulations are not sufficient, but a note of gratitude for the service that you put in,” Marcos said during the awarding rites in Malacañang.

While the life of a soldier, a policeman, and a teacher is perceived as one of the most difficult and often thankless jobs, the awardees did it well, he said.

“And you look into the face of the challenges that were before you and you did not allow that to stop you because clearly you have a commitment to the service that you have taken an oath to continue and to serve,” he told the awardees.

“Your constant resolve to fulfill and transcend your duties to the best of your ability will exemplify what it means to be true public servants. You are the living embodiment of the phrase ‘beyond excellence.’”

The President also expressed his gratitude to the Metrobank Foundation and its partners for spearheading the initiative that has been going on for three decades.

The award, he said, demonstrates a clear understanding of what the society is looking for in terms of public servants from local communities, police, soldiers, and educators.

“This is corporate social responsibility at its best. If this day tells us anything, it is that each and every single one of us, in our own way plays a crucial role in nation-building,” he said.

The Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos Award is the most prestigious career-service award for Filipino exemplars in the academe, military, and police sectors.

It recognizes 10 Filipino exemplars composed of four teachers, three soldiers, and three police officers.

The award is conferred on individuals for their exemplary public service, but more importantly, for being an outstanding Filipino who made positive changes and influence in their communities.

According to the foundation, the awardees must also display patriotism, integrity, courage, and social responsibility, the universal values that must define Filipinos.

Each awardee receives a P1 million cash prize, a trophy, and a gold medallion. (PND)