The Marist School Marikina community takes immense pride in congratulating Dr Samuel F Macagba III for being selected as a recipient of the Marist of Champagnat Award (Pillar of Excellence Category). This prestigious recognition highlights his outstanding achievements and unwavering embodiment of the Marist spirit. His contributions are a shining example of the values set forth by St Marcellin Champagnat, whose life and work continue to inspire and transform the lives of many.
Photo by Marist School
The Marist of Champagnat Award is a symbol of excellence, honoring individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective fields while living out the transformative power of Marist education. Dr Macagba’s dedication to his work and his unwavering commitment to the values of service, humility, and faith have earned him a place among an exceptional group of awardees.
On Saturday, 22 February 2025, at 5:00 PM (Philippine Time), the Marist community gathered at the Br Maurus James Doherty Gymnasium in Marist School Marikina to celebrate this momentous occasion. The awards gala was an evening of recognition, fellowship, and joy as 40 distinguished individuals were honored for their remarkable contributions to society.
During the ceremony, each awardee was invited to share a brief thank-you speech. Dr Macagba expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the vital role of his teachers, whose guidance inspired him to pursue a life of teaching. He emphasized that the values he strives to instill in his students align with the service and humility exemplified by Jesus Christ, viewing teaching as a noble calling to shape lives and inspire future generations.
Dr Macagba also reflected on his own personal journey and the support he has received from those closest to him. While he felt deeply honored to be in the company of such distinguished individuals—humanitarians, soldiers, cultural artists, and more—he humbly noted that, as an educator, his greatest achievement lies in the transformative power of education, one child at a time. He expressed immense gratitude for the encouragement from his colleagues at Xavier University and the unwavering support of his wife, Dr Junefel Macagba, who accompanied him to the ceremony.
Photo by Marist School
The evening also recognized other outstanding alumni, including Fr Eric G Velandria, SJ, Fr Raymund Benedict Q Hizon, SJ, Fr Adriano R Tapiador, SJ, and Fr Roberto Maria R Buenconsejo, SJ, who were honored with the Beacon of Hope Award for their response to a religious vocation. Though not physically present, their legacy and dedication to the Marist mission continue to inspire future generations of Marists.
Dr Macagba’s recognition is a testament to the enduring spirit of excellence within the Marist community. His commitment to education and his passion for shaping the minds and hearts of future leaders embody the Marist tradition of nurturing young people to reach their fullest potential in service to others.