Dr. Ronelo Al. K. Firmo, PhD, CESO IV, is the Regional Director of the Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Office VIII (Eastern Visayas), recognized for his transformative leadership, unwavering integrity, and deep commitment to quality basic education. With over three decades of service in education, he has consistently championed reforms that prioritize learners, teachers, and communities at the heart of governance.

Dr. Firmo holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Programs Management from the Leyte Institute of Technology. He earned his Master of Arts in Education from Divine Word University, a Bachelor of Laws from Leyte Colleges, and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (Cum Laude) from Sacred Heart Seminary, Palo, Leyte. He is a Career Executive Service Officer (CESO IV) and a Career Executive Service Eligible.

He began his professional journey at the Philippine Science High School–Eastern Visayas Campus, where he served as Science Research Assistant, Registrar, and later as Special Science Teacher. During his tenure, he received multiple recognitions, including being named an Outstanding Teacher and Model Employee. He subsequently rose through the ranks of DepEd, serving as Senior Education Program Specialist, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, and Schools Division Superintendent of Tacloban City, Northern Samar, and Leyte Division.

Dr. Firmo’s tenure as Schools Division Superintendent was marked by revolutionary achievements, including the establishment of new secondary and senior high schools, post-Typhoon Yolanda school rehabilitation, and the institutionalization of transparent and systematic governance reforms. These earned him the 2018 Outstanding Schools Division Superintendent Award and recognition as a 2020 Gawad Career Executive Service National Finalist.

As Regional Director, Dr. Firmo leads with his guiding mantra—“Region 8 is GREAT”. Under his leadership, DepEd Eastern Visayas continues to move forward with purpose, unity, and a steadfast commitment to delivering inclusive, resilient, and future-ready education for all.