Honoring Filipino Heroes at Malacañang: A Celebration of Valor and Service Excellence

In every nation, there are individuals who embody the values of courage, integrity, and service excellence. The Metrobank Foundation 2024 Outstanding Filipinos, honored this year at Malacañang Palace, exemplify these ideals. With transformative leadership and unwavering dedication, these police officers have reshaped their communities and inspired a nation. Through the efforts of the Rotary Club of New Manila East (RCNME) and its collaborative partnership with the Metrobank Foundation, their remarkable stories of valor and compassion have been brought to light.

The Rigorous Road to Recognition

The 2024 Outstanding Filipinos were chosen through a meticulous selection process that celebrated excellence and selfless service. Representing RCNME as a key project partner for the police officer category, President Karlo Benjamin Nisce and Project Chairman Majumi Borlaza worked alongside the Metrobank Foundation to ensure the awards highlighted individuals whose work exemplifies Rotary’s values of “Service Above Self”. The panel of judges, led by Senator Mark Villar, included Congressman Roman Romulo, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, and Supreme Court Associate Justice Filomena Singh, all of whom lent their expertise to the rigorous evaluation process.

This year, the honorees included three extraordinary police officers: Police Staff Sgt. Llena Sol-Josefa Jovita, Police Maj. Mark Ronan Balmaceda, and Police Lt. Col. Bryan Bernardino. Their stories resonate as powerful examples of dedication to community, innovation in public service, and courage in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire: Transformational Leadership in Action

Police Staff Sgt. Llena Sol-Josefa M. Jovita: An Advocate of Compassionate Service

PSSG Jovita’s groundbreaking “Gatas Mo, Kinabuhi Ko” program has saved lives and strengthened community trust in law enforcement. Her Safe Swim program has equipped vulnerable children with life-saving water safety skills, while her initiatives for child-friendly police stations ensure inclusivity and protection for children with special needs. Jovita’s work redefines policing as a compassionate and community-centered vocation.

Police Maj. Mark Ronan B. Balmaceda: A Champion of Integrity and Reform

From the chaos of the Marawi Siege to reforming police recruitment processes, PMAJ Balmaceda has demonstrated unmatched resolve and strategic brilliance. His initiatives, including Oplan Pagsungko and Oplan Bansay, have brought transparency and integrity to the Philippine National Police. Beyond the battlefield, Balmaceda’s environmental efforts in safeguarding the La Mesa Watershed highlight his multifaceted commitment to national progress.

Police Lt. Col. Bryan G. Bernardino: A Builder of Bridges and Peace

In Sultan Kudarat, PLTCOL Bernardino has bridged divides and brought insurgents back into society through initiatives like “Kakep Ka Su Kalilintad”. His peacebuilding programs, including Project MADRASA and “Skul Ka Ba”, focus on fostering interfaith dialogue, addressing radicalization, and empowering the youth. His innovative leadership has transformed Sultan Kudarat into a safer and more harmonious community.

Moments of Honor and Celebration

The journey of recognition began in September 2024 with an intimate testimonial dinner hosted by RCNME at the historic Club Filipino, led by President Karlo Benjamin Nisce. This gathering of honorees, community leaders, and Rotarians celebrated the transformative impact of service.

Legislative halls soon echoed with the honorees’ names. On September 9, the House of Representatives, led by Speaker Martin Romualdez, passed resolutions commending the awardees. Two days later, the Senate, under Senate President Chiz Escudero, reinforced this recognition. These tributes affirmed the honorees’ contributions as pillars of national progress.

The celebration reached its pinnacle on October 29, 2024, at Malacañang Palace, where President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. presented the Medallion of Excellence to Police Officers PSSG Jovita, PMAJ Balmaceda, PLTCOL Bernardino, alongside four educators and three military personnel. Each honoree received the Flame trophy, a golden medallion, and PHP 1 million, symbolizing the nation’s deep gratitude for their service.

Rotary’s Enduring Role

RCNME’s partnership with the Metrobank Foundation underscores Rotary’s commitment to fostering excellence, leadership, and community development. Through initiatives like the Country’s Outstanding Police Officers in Service (COPS) program, RCNME continues to champion those who uplift and protect the nation. This collaboration is more than a recognition of achievements, it is a call to action for others to emulate these heroes and build stronger, more resilient communities.

A Brighter Future Through Service

As the 2024 Outstanding Filipinos return to their communities, they carry not just accolades but also a renewed mission to inspire and lead. Their stories of courage, reform, and compassion remind us that true heroism lies in the everyday pursuit of a better tomorrow.

As RCNME President Karlo Benjamin Nisce reflects on the success of this year’s awards, he affirms the transformative power of service: “These honorees are a testament to the boundless potential of selfless leadership. They inspire us to rise above challenges to build a stronger nation.”

This collaboration between the Rotary Club of New Manila East, the Metrobank Foundation, and the nation’s leaders demonstrates that through partnership and shared purpose, the Philippines can celebrate and cultivate the heroes who will lead us toward a brighter and more united future.