A night of institutional brilliance, outstanding prestige, and shared triumph!
On June 30, 2026, the faculty and staff of Lucena West I Elementary School gathered in their finest attire at the Queen Margarette Hotel Downtown, Lucena City, for the magnificent 6th Gawad Parangal 2026. Spearheaded through the Gender and Development (GAD) initiative, this grand evening gala was a distinguished showcase of educational success, serving as a tribute to the remarkable accomplishments, steadfast dedication, and exceptional contributions of both teaching and non-teaching personnel for the School Year 2025β2026.
The celebration commenced with a processional featuring school administrators, visitors, grade-level educators, SNED, ALS, and non-teaching personnel a stunning display of unity and professionalism. Following a solemn Doxology led by Ms. Lina M. Aureada, Grade 5 teacher, Mr. Carlos V. Villaester, Principal II, formally opened the ceremony with a powerful message of gratitude, emphasizing that the schoolβs soaring triumphs are built on teamwork and a shared, uncompromising vision for quality education. His steadfast support and leadership continue to empower the entire faculty and staff, inspiring everyone to consistently achieve new milestones. Mrs. Mary Grace G. Garcia, GAD Focal Person, then presented the event’s rationale, highlighting how this GAD-led Gawad Parangal reflects the school’s commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and gender-responsive practices in the workplace, which was further echoed in the inspiring, challenge-driven messages delivered by Public Schools District Supervisors Dr. Sorina P. Gloria and Ma. Consolacion V. TeΓ±ido.
The evening advanced to the presentation of awards as the ceremony gave a resounding salute to the passionate Coordinators, Grade Leaders, Master Teachers, Coaches, and Trainers who went beyond the call of duty across different contexts to champion our learners. Alongside them, dedicated educators were also honored for their enduring years of service within the Lucena West I institution.
Following these presentations came a deeply moving and prestigious highlight of the evening, where the institution paid a heartfelt tribute to its true pillars of service. Lifetime loyalty awards were conferred upon Ma’am Mignon M. Ella, Ma’am Jasmin V. Vidad, and Ma’am Gina A. Davila for their extraordinary, dedicated service of 30 years and above. In the same breath of excellence, the community shared a special time for the esteemed Kinder teacher, Ma’am Juliet S. Macalintal, honoring her legacy of devotion and a lifetime of molding young minds.
The excitement heightened with a surprise segment of casual and special awards, recognizing the teachers who stood out. As the program concluded, Mr. Bayani M. Reyes, Assistant School Head, delivered a stirring closing message, reminding everyone that recognition is a profound inspiration to continue serving with integrity and compassion, while Mr. Rodney M. Untalan and Mrs. Carlzen A. Reyes masterfully guided the entire program as Masters of Ceremony.
The 6th Gawad Parangal 2026 was more than just an awards night, it was a definitive statement of Lucena West Iβs collective, relentless pursuit of educational greatness, a celebration of an enduring legacy, and a beautiful recognition of the special achievements of our hard-working teachers. Congratulations to all our brilliant awardees, loyalty honorees, and beloved retiree! Backed by the unwavering support of our school head, Sir Carlos, the Lucena West I teaching and non-teaching staff will continue to soar, champion quality education, and inspire greatness!
//MARY GRACE G. GARCIA
Photo Credit: Rose Ann Santos
