DepEd Heroes Program Celebrates Lasting Impact
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has launched the DepEd Heroes program to honor teachers, parents, and community partners who have made a lasting impact on learners nationwide. This initiative highlights the courage and dedication of individuals whose service transforms lives both inside and beyond the classroom.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized that the program aims to provide enduring recognition rather than momentary applause. “It is time to recognize the heroism of teachers, parent-volunteers, school heads, and education partners not just on a single date, but throughout the year,” he said. “Because their work never stops, and neither should our gratitude.”
Honoring Everyday Champions
The first recipients recognized under the DepEd Heroes program are Ma. Lourdes D. Rola, a Master Teacher II from Caloocan High School, and Dea Gavas Solayao, a parent-volunteer from Maybancal Elementary School in Morong, Rizal. Both have demonstrated unwavering commitment to learner development despite challenges.
Known to many as Teacher Lou, Rola has dedicated over 15 years to secondary and tertiary education. She leads several initiatives including Project LET IT GROW, which promotes resilience and a growth mindset among students; Project ALAB, providing resources and mentorship to disadvantaged learners; and SALIN-KULTURA, an interactive program designed to bring Filipino culture to life through community-based learning.
“To be called a hero is something I never imagined because for me, being a teacher has always been about commitment and love for our learners,” Rola shared.
Parent-Volunteers Making a Difference
Meanwhile, Mommy Dea, as Solayao is fondly called, began volunteering in 2020 as a Gabay Aral tutor to help children continue learning during pandemic-related school closures. She later joined the Barangayan para sa Bawat Bata Bumabasa (BRB4) reading program, conducting storytelling sessions under mango trees without chairs or blackboards—relying solely on the eagerness of the children to learn.
Her dedication exemplifies how community involvement plays a vital role in nurturing young minds, especially in challenging times.
Looking Ahead: Discovering More DepEd Heroes
Through the DepEd Heroes program, the department seeks to uncover more individuals like Rola and Solayao—those selfless champions whose quiet service shapes the future of the nation far beyond the walls of top-performing schools. Officials reported the program will continue to recognize outstanding contributions throughout the year to inspire others to serve.
For more news and updates on DepEd Heroes, visit Filipinokami.com.
