Luminary Excellence in Education and Research Awards 2024
On May 25, 2024, the Molave Room at Dusit Thani Manila was abuzz with excitement as it hosted the 4th Luminary Excellence in Education and Research Awards (LEERA). The awarding ceremony was hybrid, featuring both in-person and online recipients. LEERA celebrates individual achievements and highlights the critical importance of continuous learning, innovation, and service to society.
The evening commenced with a prayer led by Mr. Leonardo Quimson Jr., a distinguished recipient of the Gawad San Lorenzo Ruiz and Dangal ng UST awards. In his opening remarks, Mr. Clarence del Castillo, MBA, President of LFIHD, congratulated the honorees and emphasized the imperative nature of inspiring colleagues to strive for excellence, given the current challenges facing Philippine education and research productivity. Dr. Bernardo Sepeda, Executive Director of the National Research Council of the Philippines, delivered a heartfelt congratulatory message to the fellows. Prof. Cristina Macascas, Ulirang Guro 2022 awardee from the Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino, also delivered an inspiring message.
Mr. Walter Daniel Delos Reyes hosted the ceremony, and Ms. Faye Lugay serenaded the honorees. The recipients received medals and certificates, while the Luminary Awardees received plaques. The Lumina Foundation also acknowledged the immense impact of its close collaborator, the Association of Filipino Teachers and Educators in America, Inc. (AFTEA), with a Plaque of Recognition for Partnership and Collaboration. The event concluded with a prayer led by Dr. Victoria Rojas.
