THE DEPARTMENT of Education has started its search for an outstanding public school teacher who will represent the Philippines in the prestigious 2023 Princess Maha Chakri Award.

The PMCA honors and recognizes 11 Southeast Asian (Asean + Timor Leste) public teachers whose outstanding achievements have benefited education and human development.

In honor of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, the award focuses on teachers who have made a considerable impact on the development and lives of the learners, particularly those from disadvantaged groups.

Since the first award in 2015, PMCA has recognized four recipients from the Philippines — William Moraca of General Santos City (2015), Jesus Insalada of Iloilo City (2017), Sadat Minandang of Cotabato City (2019) and Marcelo Otinguey (2021).

To qualify for the award, candidates must have participated in community and civic movements, especially where education is least accessible; introduced innovation in teaching that has benefited communities where they have taught; or inspired, promoted, and sustained the development of students and fellow teachers.

Nominees will undergo screening at the School Division Office, Regional Office and the Central Office through the International Cooperation Office with the Philippines’ PMCA Selection Committee.

The PMCA Committee will then recommend the chosen awardee for the approval of the DepEd Secretary and endorses the Philippines’ nominee to the PMCA Foundation for Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s endorsement.

“We must strengthen the teaching profession, educational development, and international relations in the field of education by molding more teachers who will champion the disadvantaged youth,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said.

For reference and guidance on the selection process, timeline, and required accomplishments relevant to the Award in the 2023 PMCA, please refer to DepEd Memorandum No. 052, Series of 2022.