Teachers group to honor top educators at the 2026 G.A.L.I.N.G. Awards
On September 5, 2026, the International Association of Multicultural & Filipino American Educators (IAM FAME INC.) Florida Chapter will host the prestigious G.A.L.I.N.G. Educators Awards. Standing for “Global Achievers Leading Innovation Nurturing Growth,” the G.A.L.I.N.G. Awards celebrate exceptional educators who have made significant impact in their classrooms, communities, and the global education landscape.
The gala and awards ceremony will take place at the Embassy Suites Hotel, located at 9300 Baymeadows Rd., Jacksonville, Florida, 32256.
This year, 10 distinguished educators have been selected for their outstanding contributions across various educational disciplines. These leaders uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, inspiring the future through their dedication to educational excellence.
2026 G.A.L.I.N.G. Award Recipients
- Global Educator Award: Dionicio A. Pacpaco
- Recognized for international collaboration, cross-cultural initiatives, and promoting global citizenship.
- Innovative Educator Award: Michael Reyes
- Honored for utilizing creative teaching strategies and innovative instructional practices to improve student learning.
- Instructional Leadership Award: Kasandra Lee R. Estrella
- Awarded for demonstrating instructional excellence and mentoring colleagues through professional learning initiatives.
- Excellence in Educational Leadership Award: Ralph Torres
- Celebrated for outstanding educational leadership, organizational impact, and driving visionary school improvement projects.
- Excellence in Educational Research Award: Dr. Gerald Paolo L. Patrimonio
- Recognized for conducting scholarly research and advancing evidence-based educational practices.
- Excellence in Educational Technology Award: Crezel R. Concepcion
- Honored for effectively integrating technology and digital learning tools to boost student engagement and outcomes.
- Excellence in Service to Education Award: Lovelyn Villar
- Awarded for over a decade of service, demonstrating unwavering integrity, dedication, and professional commitment to the field.
- Excellence in Community Engagement Award: Salvador B. Quigaman
- Celebrated for leading impactful community outreach programs and building collaborative partnerships with parents and stakeholders.
- Global Cultural Ambassador Award: Christine Gunay
- Recognized for actively promoting Filipino heritage internationally and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- The G.A.L.I.N.G. Educator of the Year: Jose Taguinod Jr.
- Bestowed with the highest honor of the program, acknowledging exceptional leadership, innovation, and service that serves as an inspiration locally and globally.
A special citation will also be given to the following educators for their commitment to excellence in education: Grace Tumamak, Ruchel Ramos, Marian Rose Cas, Dainalyn Baliscao, Elizabeth Laulita, Ana Lisa Ramos, Radhelyn Bawisan, Rosemarie Picana, Vanesa Labastida, Sheryl Reambonanza, Shiela Marie Borela, Jovy Murcia, Josolito Leal, Freddly Asuer, Chona Castro, Magileen Joy Gondraneos, Emelyn Ador Dionicio, Carmela Castro, Rommel Revensencio, Marisse Versoza, Noviema Peregrino, Jonica Alcantara, Charina Ronquillo, Gina Parbeno, and Catalina Santos.
The 2026 G.A.L.I.N.G. Awards will not only recognize these 10 remarkable individuals but also shine a spotlight on the transformative power of education on teachers.




