TWO public school teachers from Zamboanga were honored among the 10 recipients of the prestigious 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos Award for their remarkable contributions to basic education. Ma. Ella Fabella, a master teacher at Maasin Learning Center in Zamboanga City, and Franco Rino Apoyon, head teacher at Kabasalan National High School in Zamboanga Sibugay, were recognized for their dedication to inclusive education, innovative teaching programs and positive impact on their communities. Fabella, an Indigenous People's Education Program teacher, has been a passionate advocate for Sama-Bajau children, encouraging them to take pride in their heritage. She initiated Project BEAR (Bajau Educational Activities and Recreation) and launched the Pantawid Tutorial Reading Program, where parent leaders of the 4Ps or Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program served as tutors for Sama-Bajau learners. Apoyon, an environmental education advocate for over 11 years, has promoted Greenducation in the Zamboanga Peninsula and remote barangay (villages) through the Youth for Environment in Schools Program. He also created an award-winning environmental storybook, "Ang Paglalakbay ni Papa Gong: Tahanan sa Bakawan," and developed plantable paper, a product supporting sustainable practices. Additionally, he initiated the Reach to Teach program to promote environmental awareness in remote areas. Education Secretary Sonny Angara commended the awardees — including educators, police officers and soldiers — for their exceptional service to the public. Each awardee received a P1 million cash prize, a gold medallion and The Flame trophy at the ceremony, which was held as part of Metrobank's 62nd founding anniversary celebration.