Makati City, September 15, 2025 – The Department of Education (DepEd) honored two exceptional teachers as part of the second batch of DepEd Heroes, a recognition program that pays tribute to the tireless dedication and resilience of teachers, staff, and education partners across the country.
Among those recognized were a teacher who continues teaching despite battling a serious illness, and an Alternative Learning System (ALS) educator who leads livelihood programs in Laguna.
Stories of Heroism: Mrs. Marivic and Mrs. Mary Jane
Despite her battle with cancer, Mrs. Marivic E. Villacampa, a teacher at Bulihan Integrated National High School in Silang, Cavite, continues teaching while undergoing chemotherapy.
Carrying two full teaching loads, she still makes the effort to report to school, determined to ensure her students do not fall behind in receiving quality education.
“I have stage 4 triple positive breast cancer. I challenged the limits of science because I believe in God, and I tell myself that I will live and continue to shepherd the young learners before me,” Mrs. Villacampa shared.
Her story has inspired admiration throughout the DepEd community, serving as a symbol of courage and compassion in the face of personal struggles.
Meanwhile, in Laguna, Mrs. Mary Jane N. Reodica, an ALS teacher, has transformed the way out-of-school youth and marginalized adults access education.
In 2021, she launched the Luisiana Alternative Livelihood and Advancement (L.A.L.A.) Project, which provides training in baking, meat processing, pandan weaving, candle-making, computer literacy, and other livelihood skills.
One of her key initiatives, “Reviving the Culture of Luisiana 101: Weaving,” promotes the traditional craft of making woven baskets (bayong), preserving local heritage while creating livelihood opportunities for learners. She also spearheads the ALS Luisiana Festival, an annual celebration of learners’ achievements through academic competitions and cultural performances.
“Being an ALS teacher is not just a job—it is a mission. Our classrooms are not always within four walls. Sometimes they’re on the streets, in barangay halls, or under a tree. But wherever it may be, one thing never changes: the heart to teach and the hope to inspire,” Mrs. Reodica said.
The Spirit of DepEd Heroes
DepEd Heroes is a recognition program that highlights inspiring stories of teachers and education partners who go beyond their duties. The program seeks to foster a culture of excellence, compassion, and shared responsibility in education.
“This is the true essence of DepEd Heroes. It’s not just about honoring our exemplary heroes, but about sparking inspiration and encouraging more people to take part in helping,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara.
DepEd also recognized two Central Office employees who are set to retire this month. Mrs. Agnes James, Administrative Assistant II from the Office of the Secretary, will retire after 44 years of service, while Mrs. Marietta Luisa Subido, Administrative Officer II from the Employee Account Management Division, will conclude nine years of dedicated government service.
DepEd expressed its deep gratitude to both retirees for their invaluable contributions to public education.
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