October 29, 2020 – The United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) on Saturday presented the General Carlos P. Romulo (CPR) award to the Department of Education (DepEd) on the celebration of their 73rd anniversary and the 75th founding anniversary of the United Nations.

UNAP recognized DepEd for its outstanding service in continuously educating the young people about the United Nations and support to its various programs and projects.

“Under her leadership [Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones], DepEd had been the most successful, actively participating in several youth day celebrations…we are very optimistic that with the presence of the UN, and at the same time, local representatives of the education and congress, we can forge ahead and create new innovative ways that can bridge the gap. And we believe that through this way, the sustainable development of mothering the earth, mothering the church, mothering individuals can bring back a more cohesive integrated as well as collaborative efforts in bringing about this entire concern of world peace,” UNAP President Dr. Amelia Reyes said.

In her message, Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones expressed her gratitude for receiving the award and stressed the support of the United Nations to DepEd’s initiatives towards learning continuity.

“It is an honor to me now as Secretary of the Department of Education to receive this award named in honor of perhaps one of the greatest Filipinos ever produced by our country. Whether personally or institutionally, the United Nations has always been part of my life worth, my professional commitments, and as it is in the lives of many of our distinguished leaders and personalities in the country,” Secretary Briones said.

The Education chief noted that the support of the United Nations organizations come out strong for the continuity of education and have provided the country with global studies on the dangers and threats of stopping the process of education.

Secretary Briones cited the active participation of DepEd on UN programs that tackles population issues and trends, HIV/AIDS awareness, protection, and prevention, harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure, and matters concerning drugs.

According to UNAP, the CPR Award is given to those organizations or individuals who have made Filipinos proud in their diverse achievements, personally and professionally, and have contributed to world peace and development.

During the awarding, education partners also shared significant updates on education and its relevance to the current challenges of the country amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We spearheaded the passage of laws that will strengthen the character of our youth. One of these is Republic Act no.11476, the Good Manners and Right Conduct and Values Education Act. Through these measures, the basic tenets of good manners and right conduct such as caring for oneself, having concern for others, upholding respect to people, upholding discipline order, and cultivating honesty, obedience, and above all, love for country will be reinforced to our youth. As General Romulo continues to serve as an inspiration to many of us, let us continue to talk about his life and writings to the Filipino youth,” Chair of the Committee on Basic Education Hon. Cong. Roman Romulo said.

 

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