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Negros Occidental, Philippines (February 24, 2024) — Negros Occidental Conference (NOC) Education Department honored Adventist educators at a banquet Feb. 16 at Nature's Village Resort.

The event, themed "Honoring the Heart of Adventist Education: Celebrating Our Educators," recognized teachers for their dedication.

"They are the people who dedicate their lives to teaching. They are the guiding light that fuels the educational journey of each student whose dreams lie in the knowledge they share," said one of the students during an interview.

"A famous quote states that education is the foundation that shapes who we are and what we aspire to be," another student said in a separate interview.

Female teachers from NOC church schools wore red gowns, while the male teachers donned red and black suits. This event marked the first time the department organized such a celebration for the teachers, allowing them to walk down the aisle with pride and sophistication.

"You are shaping lives in the hearts of others," Sir Lemuel Banday, Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC) education director, said in his inspirational address to the teachers. He urged humility and service over recognition, saying true leadership means giving credit to others.

He further emphasized that teachers must possess a Christ-like character and instill moral values while serving. He also pointed out that to honor oneself, a teacher must remain humble and focus on serving rather than seeking recognition. Someone who gives credit, encourages others, and leads by example.

"Because no matter how small our services are in our eyes when we educate with passion, patience, and prayers, we are fulfilling God's mission," Sir Banday added.

One of the event's highlights was the recognition of achievements and loyalty, facilitated by Miss Jerelyn Orquesta, the NOC education director. She presented tokens, certificates, and service pins to teachers with one to thirty-two years of service.

Miss Ana Liza Facon, CPUC associate education director and Adventist Possibility Ministries director, presented the awards to schools with top scores on Achievement Test Awards and those that met Adventist Accrediting Association standards.

Pastor Jophone Galanza, NOC president, offered a dedicatory prayer together with the NOC administrative committee members.

On the other hand, Miss Orquesta thanked the guests and the NOC administration for the memorable night.

The teachers returned home with Sir Banday's advice during the event: "Keep learning and growing; serve with a mission-driven heart. We are not just shaping students; we are shaping eternity."

"Life is a journey that constantly provides different experiences. When educating the minds, let us not forget to educate the hearts of the young," he added. "We never know which lives we influence and whose hearts are touched. What matters most is how you digest your experience as a lesson to be learned or an inspiration to inflame intellect to others for a wider horizon."

By Stephanie V. Loriezo, Negros Occidental Conference

The original version of this article is posted on the official Facebook page of the Negros Occidental Conference.