Gawad Lingkod Bayan 2025 recognized a “humble driver” from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Western Visayas for exemplary public service during awarding ceremonies at Malacañang Palace on January 28, 2026.

“Even the smallest cog can drive the largest wheel.”

Cornelio T. Mabera, an Administrative Aide VI at the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Western Visayas, demonstrated this to be true when he was named one of the recipients of the 2025 Gawad Lingkod Bayani Award at the Pagpupugay 2025: Parangal sa mga Lingkod Bayan, held at Malacañan Palace on January 28, 2026.

The conferment was led by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., together with Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Marilyn Barua-Yap, CSC Commissioner Ryan Alvin R. Acosta, and CSC Commissioner Luis Meinrado Pañgulayan.

Mabera is among the 10 individual Gawad Dangal ng Bayan awardees recognized for demonstrating extraordinary acts of public service and consistent adherence to the highest ethical standards embodied in Republic Act (RA) No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

As a recipient of the country’s highest honor for civil servants, Mabera received a trophy, a gold-gilded medallion from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, a Php 200,000 cash prize, and an automatic promotion to the next higher position or its equivalent salary increase.

His work has generated very significant savings for the government throughout his more than 35 years of service at DOST Western Visayas. His exemplary performance led to his promotion to Administrative Aide IV in 2009 and subsequently to Administrative Aide VI in 2024. In addition to his duties as a full-time driver, he was also designated as Assistant Head of the General Services Section.

As the assigned driver of the Regional Director, Mabera frequently interacts with senior government officials and dignitaries. Despite this, he consistently demonstrates humility, professionalism, and trustworthiness in all his dealings. His exceptional service reflects the highest ideals of public service and underscores the fact that meaningful and transformative contributions can come from all levels of an organization, regardless of position or title.

DOST Western Visayas extends its warmest congratulations to Mabera for this well-deserved recognition. His dedication, integrity, and exemplary service continue to inspire his colleagues and reflect the true spirit of public service, bringing pride and honor to the entire DOST family and the region.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Western Visayas Regional Office is one of the attached offices of the agency aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All. (PR)

Photo caption: Executive Secretary Ralph Recto (fourth from the left), representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., led the conferment of Mr. Cornelio T. Mabera (fifth from the left) together with (from left to right): CSC Commissioner Atty. Luis Meinrado Pañgulayan, CSC Commissioner Atty. Ryan Alvin R. Acosta, and CSC Chairperson Atty. Marilyn Barua-Yap. Mr. Mabera is joined by his wife, Sandra P. Mabera (rightmost).

Written by Novelyn Anne B. Factuar