MANILA - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday honored the 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, hailing them as the new faces of public service. In a ceremony in Malacañang, Marcos commended the 10 teachers, soldiers, and police officers for demonstrating what it truly means to be a 'Bagong Pilipino' (new Filipino). 'You are the new faces of public service-dedicated, selfless, and committed to excellence-the living examples of what it truly means to be a Bagong Pilipino,' Marcos said. The 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos were teachers Ma. Ella Fabella and Franco Rino Apoyon; professors Dr. Maria Regina Hechanova-Alampay and Dr. Decibel Faustino-Eslava. Philippine Marine Corps S/Sgt. Michael Rayanon; and Philippine Army (PA) Maj. Ron Villarosa Jr.; Philippine Navy Capt. Salvador Sambalilo; Police Officers S/Sgt. Llena Sol-Josefa Jovita; Maj. Mark Ronan Balmaceda; and Lt. Col. Bryan Bernardino were also awarded. Each of the awardees received a PHP1 million cash prize, a gol den medallion, and the iconic "The Flame" trophy from Metrobank. The President also reminded the awardees to carry their medallions as a reminder of their determination to keep pushing forward as they set a high standard in public service. 'These honors are a testament to the remarkable heights each of you has reached. Whether you are educating our young, defending our borders, or keeping our communities safe, you have gone beyond what is ordinary. And for that, you deserve nothing less than our highest admiration," Marcos said. Likewise, he urged them to continue being catalysts of change and to inspire the public to follow their example amid emerging global challenges. 'We need more people like you-innovative, selfless and socially responsible; this is what I have always seen in Filipinos- we never get tired of helping others,' he said. P10M for 'Kristine' relief efforts Meanwhile, Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña announced that they are donating PHP10 million for the ongoing relief ef forts for the victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami). In his welcome message, he said they are now coordinating with the Presidential Management Staff to ensure that the assistance will reach the severely hit communities. Source: Philippines News Agency