Every classroom has a teacher whose influence reaches far beyond lessons and report cards. Across the Philippines, many dedicate decades to helping students overcome challenges, discover their strengths, and build better futures for themselves and their communities.
That commitment took center stage during the fifth Ten Outstanding Guro Awards (TOGA), where EastWest joined JCI Manila in recognizing 10 educators whose work has created a lasting difference in the lives of Filipino learners.
Among the honorees was Leticia C. Dela Cruz, a Teacher III from Navotas whose three decades in public education have been marked by her commitment to student welfare and learner rights. In Cagayan de Oro, Master Teacher Ryan Capilitan Tura continues to bring education to Indigenous Peoples learners through a remote multigrade mobile school, helping children access opportunities despite the distance. Another awardee, Jerrypol Casil Palma of Isabela, gained recognition for PATIChem, an innovation now being used in schools across the country.
Also recognized were Marie Joy Jacinto of Batac, Maureen Lou A. Aragoza of Vigan, Catalina M. Canasa of Cebu, Kim D. Grapa of Dipolog, Cesar Sucdad Martin of Benguet, Gloperlyn de Guzman Chavez of Bataan, and Ma. Cristina G. Bagas of Muntinlupa. Together, they represent thousands of Filipino teachers whose work extends far beyond the classroom and into the communities they serve.
The celebration also highlighted another way of supporting educators. Through GuroWAIS, EastWest Rural Bank’s financial literacy program launched in 2025, hundreds of teachers have taken part in sessions on budgeting, saving, income management, and long-term financial planning in partnership with JCI Manila and local Department of Education offices.
Helping teachers gain financial confidence allows them to plan for their own future while continuing to guide the next generation with greater peace of mind. Recognition, coupled with practical support, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of educators and the communities they serve.
Behind every successful student is someone who believed in them first. Teachers continue to play that role every day, often without expecting recognition. If their stories inspire you, consider supporting education initiatives in your community, partnering with organizations that champion teachers, or starting a project with your workplace, school, or circle of friends. More people choosing to stand behind educators means more lives changed for generations to come.
