BukSU’s BECEd Head Receives TEC Teachers Awards 2026

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECEd) Department Head Dr. Hannah T. Castillon was selected as an awardee under the Advocates of Community Empowerment category of the Teacher Education Council (TEC) Teachers Awards 2026 on September 30 at The Manila Hotel.

Castillon’s category covers teachers, community-based trainers and recognized culture bearers who provide education in non-formal and community-based settings. These include the Alternative Learning System (ALS), Child Development Centers and Community Learning Centers.

The category also covers initiatives in unserved and underserved areas related to environmental education, child protection, cultural preservation and community development.

“This recognition is more than a personal achievement. It is a reminder of why I chose to serve in education. True community empowerment happens when we share knowledge, build capacities, create opportunities, and walk alongside the people and communities we serve,” said Castillon.

Castillon also serves as extension leader for the BECEd extension project “Empowering Child Development Workers’ Classroom Management and Pedagogy.” The project was recently recognized as a regional winner in the 2026 Civil Service Commission Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo (Group) category for Northern Mindanao.

“Every training, extension initiative, and collaboration has been a collective effort. Being recognized during the first TEC Awards is both humbling and deeply meaningful. I receive this award with a grateful heart and a renewed commitment to serve, empower, and make a difference, one community at a time,” Castillon added.

The TEC Teachers Awards was established under Republic Act No. 11713, or the Excellence in Teacher Education Act. The law directs the TEC to develop educators and school leaders with integrity and competence.

The ceremony was part of the Celebrating Teacher Excellence: A National Teachers’ Month 2026 Celebration. Castillon attended the Teachers Awards ceremony with BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol and College of Education Dean Dr. Ann Sheila del Rosario. (BukSU – Information Unit)