Filamer Christian University, Inc. (FCU) Basic Education teachers and staff shone brightly after earning distinctions at the Department of Education (DepEd)–Roxas City Tinimakasan Awards 2025, held on October 17 at the Capiz Gymnasium.

The annual recognition event celebrates outstanding educators and school personnel who exemplify commitment and excellence in the teaching profession.

FCU High School was conferred the Hall of Fame Award for Outstanding Private Elementary (Big School Category), recognizing its consistent performance in the field of basic education.

From FCU’s Senior High School (SHS), John Lester Fariñas was named Outstanding Non-Teaching Personnel Level I (Private Schools), while Filipino teacher Jessa Cagay and SHS Head Janrie Agam were proclaimed Finalists for Outstanding Private School Teachers in the Grade 11–12 Key Stage.

In the Junior High School (JHS) Department, Ferdinand Taytayon and Jethel Joy Ruto also secured Finalist honors as Outstanding Private School Teachers Grade 7–10 Key Stage.

Meanwhile, Elementary teachers Paul Jade Burgos and Maria Joela Lopez were listed as Finalists for the Grade 4–6 Key Stage, alongside Cyrel Garingo, who earned a Finalist spot in the Kindergarten to Grade 3 Key Stage.

Agam shared that the nominees presented their accomplishments for the school year 2024–2025, highlighting their contributions both within the institution and as active members of the Schools Division of Roxas City.

“As a finalist, it is both an honor and a challenge,” Agam said. “This award reminds us that as educators, we must uphold quality education by participating in meaningful activities that reflect our commitment to our students and to learning itself.”

On the other hand, Fariñas expressed gratitude for the unexpected recognition, crediting his success to faith and the encouragement of his colleagues.

“Honestly, I’m still surprised that I won the award for Outstanding Private Non-Teaching Personnel Level I in Tinimakasan 2025. I never imagined receiving such recognition, it wasn’t part of my plans, but I believe this is God’s plan for me,” he said.
He added that encouragement from others often fuels self-belief.

“Even when you don’t fully believe in yourself, there are people who see your potential and trust your abilities. Because of them, your hard work will eventually be noticed.”

Meanwhile, Cagay shared that the process of preparing for the competition was demanding yet rewarding.

“Masasabi kong hindi naging madali ang proseso,” she admitted. “Ngunit sa bawat hakbang na ito, pinapaalala ko sa aking sarili na ang tunay kong layunin ay hindi ang parangal, kundi ang ipakita kung paano ako nagsilbi nang buong puso bilang guro.”

The Tinimakasan Awards, spearheaded by DepEd–Roxas City Schools Division, pays tribute to educators and institutions that help elevate the quality of learning in the city through their dedication and exemplary performance.

The achievements of the Filamerian educators stand as a testament to FCU’s continuing mission, to nurture excellence, faith, and service in the field of education.

Article by Dexter Villaluna, The Hillside Echo – Senior