More than 500 participants from various regions across the country gathered in Bohol for the Annual Gawad Teodora Alonso (GTA), held from February 2 to 5, 2026, at the Bohol Tropics Resort in Tagbilaran City.
The prestigious national event was spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd) and featured Assistant Secretary for Learning Systems Strand Janir Datukan as the guest speaker, alongside Assistant Secretary Carmela Oracion, under the leadership of DepEd Region VII Regional Director Salustiano Jimenez.
As the host province, Bohol warmly welcomed education leaders, regional directors, teachers, students, and key stakeholders, reaffirming its strong commitment to advancing quality and inclusive education. During the opening and recognition ceremonies, Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to host the national gathering and underscored the initiative’s significance in shaping future generations.
“Nalipay kita sa dedikasyon ug katakos sa atong mga magtutudlo ug mga batan-ong manunulat sa ilang talagsaong kontribusyon alang sa usa ka kalidad nga edukasyon pinaagi sa Gawad Teodora Alonso,” the Governor said, commending the excellence and commitment of educators and young writers.
Governor Aumentado further emphasized that the Provincial Government of Bohol recognizes the vital role of the Gawad Teodora Alonso in advancing the holistic growth and development of learners, envisioned in the Strategic Governance Roadmap.
He noted that as the province continues to pursue a smart, resilient, and inclusive future anchored on education and skills development, the provincial government remains fully committed to supporting the initiative and strengthening its partnership with the Department of Education.
Formerly known as the National Competition on Storybook Writing (NCSW), the Gawad Teodora Alonso is a flagship DepEd initiative that honors outstanding storybook writers. Named after Teodora Alonso, the mother of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, the program highlights the enduring role of education, culture, and storytelling in nation-building. It encourages the creation of high-quality educational stories that promote literacy development and values formation among Filipino learners.
The successful hosting of Gawad Teodora Alonso 2025 in Bohol was made possible through the strong collaboration of Schools Division Superintendent Fay Luarez of the Division of Bohol, Schools Division Superintendent Wilfreda Bongalos of DepEd Tagbilaran City, the Provincial Government of Bohol, and the City Government of Tagbilaran.
As a recognized UNESCO Global Geopark, the Province of Bohol continues to champion initiatives that celebrate education, culture, and creativity—reinforcing its role not only as a steward of natural heritage, but also as a nurturing ground for learning, storytelling, and nation-building on the national stage. (PIMO/ALT/RJG)
