Honoring Hearts that Serve: The 5th Parangal para sa Pusong Magiting
Metro Manila’s local heroes take the spotlight in DSWD NCR’s annual recognition of courage, compassion, and service.
[Photo Space: Group photo of awardees and guests during the 5th Parangal para sa Pusong Magiting]
In a heartfelt celebration of resilience and public service, the Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region (DSWD NCR) held the 5th Parangal para sa Pusong Magiting on October 20–24, 2025, at Club Balai Isabel, Talisay, Batangas, recognizing the unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions of the 17 Local Government Units (LGUs) in Metro Manila in the field of disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM).
The event gathered representatives from Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Pateros, Quezon City, and Taguig — all united by one purpose: to safeguard communities and uplift lives amidst adversity.
The term “Pusong Magiting” embodies the courage and compassion of public servants who work beyond the call of duty, particularly during times of disaster. True to its name, the Parangal recognizes local champions whose commitment to preparedness, response, and recovery continues to save lives and inspire others.
A Celebration of Commitment and Innovation
[Photo Space: Awarding representatives]
Now in its fifth year since its launch in 2019, the Parangal para sa Pusong Magiting has become a much-anticipated tradition among NCR LGUs. This year’s ceremony showcased best practices and innovations across ten categories — from disaster preparedness and response to climate change adaptation, innovation, storytelling, and creative presentations.
Among the top awardees were the following:
- Most Exemplary in Disaster Preparedness – Quezon City
- Most Exemplary in Disaster Response and Early Recovery Operations – Mandaluyong City
- Most Exemplary in Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation – Municipality of Pateros
- Most Exemplary in Disaster Response Operations Reporting – Quezon City
- Most Exemplary in One-Practice Narrative Documentation – Makati City
- Most Exemplary in Innovation – Quezon City
- Most Exemplary in Photo-Story – Caloocan City
- Most Exemplary in Public Speaking – Municipality of Pateros
- Most Exemplary in Short Video Presentation – Taguig City
- Most Exemplary in Exhibit – Taguig City
[Photo Space: LGU participants presenting their entries]
Each presentation, whether written, exhibited, or performed, told a story of hope: stories of responders who stayed on the ground through storms, social workers who organized relief efforts late at night, and communities that rose stronger after every challenge. The event not only celebrated success but also encouraged replication of effective practices among LGUs in Metro Manila.
Inspiring Words from DSWD Leadership
[Photo Space: Usec. Cajipe delivering her message]
On the third day of the activity, during her inspirational message, DSWD Undersecretary for Disaster Response Management Group, Usec. Diana Rose S. Cajipe, commended the awardees for their unwavering dedication and exemplary service. She emphasized the importance of unity and shared purpose in disaster preparedness, stating, “Ang temang ‘Isang Komunidad, Iisang Layunin: Isang Ligtas na Kinabukasan para sa Bayan,’ ay nagsisilbing matibay na paalala na ang ating kaligtasan ay nakasalalay sa ating pagkakaisa at kolektibong pagkilos.”
[Photo Space: DSWD NCR ARD for Operations Bienvenido Jr. V. Barbosa delivering his message]
Meanwhile, on the fourth day of the activity, during the much-awaited Awards Night, DSWD NCR Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Mr. Bienvenido Jr. V. Barbosa, underscored the significance of collaboration and shared learning among LGUs. He expressed, “Sa paglalakbay nating ito, nawa’y patuloy nating gampanan at isulong ang ating adhikain. Sapagkat tulad ng tema natin ngayon, iisa lamang ang ating layunin, kundi ang kapakanan ng ating bayan.”
Also gracing the event was Atty. Norjanizah Airah R. Calaca, Innovation Division Chief, whose presence symbolized DSWD’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in public service.
A Night of Camaraderie: Mr. and Ms. Parangal and Mask of the Night
[Photo Space: Mr. and Ms. Parangal 2025 on stage]
Adding a fun and engaging twist to this year’s celebration was the continuation of the Mr. and Ms. Parangal — a friendly recognition chosen through the votes of fellow participants.
Crowned as this year’s winners were Mr. Julius Olive O. Villaseran from Manila City and Ms. Alma Sta. Maria from Muntinlupa City earned the loudest cheers and admiration from their peers. The lighthearted segment added excitement to the event and celebrated camaraderie among all delegates.
The evening also highlighted the special recognition for the Masquerade Mask of the Night, which added a festive and creative flair to the celebration. The awards were bestowed upon Mr. Jay-Ar Brian M. Gundaya from Las Pinas City and Ms. Gean Rose A. Navarro from Malabon City, whose outstanding masks perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion.
These lighthearted segments brought excitement and camaraderie among all delegates, perfectly complementing the spirit of unity and joy that defined the entire event.
Continuing the Legacy of Service
The 5th Parangal para sa Pusong Magiting served not only as an awards ceremony but also as a gathering of like-minded individuals who share a vision — to make Metro Manila a model of resilience and unity. It reaffirmed that behind every successful response effort are men and women with brave hearts, selfless hands, and an unwavering commitment to serve.
[Photo Space: Toast to Success moment]
As the awarding ceremony ended, the hall filled with cheers and smiles as everyone raised their glasses in a symbolic Toast to Success — a moment that captured the shared triumph of all the awardees and partners who continue to serve with compassion and excellence.
[Photo Space: Participants singing together]
The event culminated on a high note with the heartfelt singing of “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now,” a fitting anthem for those whose courage, teamwork, and dedication remain unstoppable in the face of challenges.
As the applause faded, one truth remained: the true measure of excellence lies not in awards, but in the lives touched and the communities strengthened by those with Pusong Magiting.
About the DRMD – DSWD NCR
The Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD) of DSWD NCR serves as the regional arm responsible for leading and coordinating disaster response and early recovery efforts in Metro Manila. As the vice chair for the Response Cluster under the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MMDRRMC), DRMD ensures that families affected by calamities receive timely assistance — from relief distribution to camp management and protection services for internally displaced persons.
Through programs like the Parangal para sa Pusong Magiting, DRMD continues to champion collaboration, innovation, and excellence in building disaster-resilient communities across the region.
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