EastWest and JCI Manila with the ten TOGA awardees
Investing in educators goes beyond recognition—it is an investment in the country’s future. That message took center stage as East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) joined forces with JCI Manila for the 5th Ten Outstanding Guro Awards (TOGA 2026), celebrating ten Filipino teachers whose passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment continue to transform classrooms and uplift communities nationwide.
Held at PHINMA Plaza in Rockwell Center, Makati City, the annual awards recognized educators who have gone above and beyond in shaping young minds and creating lasting impact in Philippine education.
Among this year’s honorees is Leticia C. Dela Cruz, a Teacher III from Navotas whose three decades of service have been marked by her steadfast advocacy for student welfare and learners’ rights.
Also recognized was Ryan Capilitan Tura, a Master Teacher from Cagayan de Oro who brings quality education to Indigenous Peoples through a remote multigrade mobile school, overcoming geographic challenges to ensure no child is left behind.
Representing innovation in education, Jerrypol Casil Palma, a Senior High School STEM teacher from Isabela, earned recognition for developing PATIChem, an award-winning learning innovation now being utilized by schools across the Philippines and acknowledged internationally.
Joining them in this year’s distinguished roster are Marie Joy Jacinto of Batac, Maureen Lou A. Aragoza of Vigan, Catalina M. Canasa of Cebu, Kim D. Grapa of Dipolog, Cesar Sucdad Martin of Benguet, Gloperlyn de Guzman Chavez of Bataan, and Ma. Cristina G. Bagas of Muntinlupa—educators celebrated for their dedication to improving learning outcomes and making meaningful contributions to their communities.
“Teachers are nation builders. In many ways, the future of our country is shaped every day in our classrooms, through educators who choose to serve with purpose,” said EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo. “At EastWest, we believe that recognizing and supporting educators is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen families, communities, and ultimately, the future of the Philippines.”
Beyond honoring excellence in teaching, EastWest continues to invest in educators through programs that promote financial wellness. In 2025, EastWest Rural Bank introduced GuroWAIS, a financial literacy initiative designed specifically for teachers, equipping them with practical knowledge on budgeting, saving, income management, and long-term financial planning.
Developed in collaboration with JCI Manila and local Department of Education offices, the program has already benefited hundreds of educators across the country.
“With GuroWAIS, we can help teachers build more confidence to manage today and prepare for tomorrow. And when they gain that confidence, the benefit goes beyond one person. It can reach their families, their students, and the communities they serve,” Ngo added.
Through initiatives such as the Ten Outstanding Guro Awards and GuroWAIS, EastWest continues to champion Filipino educators—not only by recognizing their invaluable contributions but also by empowering them with tools that strengthen their financial future and amplify their positive impact on generations of learners.