CELEBRATING the spirit of heroism extends far beyond the pages of history books. In honor of National Heroes Day, we find ourselves turning not just to historical figures but to the present — to the individuals who exemplify unwavering dedication, selflessness, and commitment in the modern tapestry of our lives. We uncover a different breed of heroes: the security guards, facility cleaners, and professors — who shape our daily experiences through their tireless efforts and remarkable devotion.

GUARDians of Safety

Meet Mark Jason Saltat, a 27-year-old security guard who has been working in the institution for a year. Behind the uniform and unassuming demeanor lies a hero who shoulders the responsibility of safety not merely as a task but as a sacred duty. "Kailangan ma-secure mo yung kaligtasan ng mga bata." He expressed. It's indeed tiring, often stretching into long hours and vigilant nights. But according to Saltat, the warmth of students' kindness, the bond with colleagues, and the collective pursuit of a secure haven make it a labor of love.

Noble Cleaners

Bounded by the complexities of our fast-paced world, cleaners should shine as contemporary heroes, their diligent efforts polishing the surfaces for health and harmony. Ethiel Daquipa, a 26-year-old city service cleaner from Surigao, Mindanao, has served the institution for six years. Her motivation lies in her single mother, a beacon of strength who fuels Daquipa's journey to provide a better life. Despite her tiring work as a cleaner, she finds solace in the vibrancy of the students, even if they are, as she playfully puts it, "makukulit." These kinds of people work tirelessly, maintaining the cleanliness of the halls, restrooms, and classrooms to provide a conducive environment for everyone — a testament to their crucial role in preserving the welfare of our societies. 

Icons of Education

In the noble realm of education, teachers emerge as our hero figures, working tirelessly, shaping minds, and fostering futures. Among these dedicated educators is Francis Isaac, a professor who humorously admitted to being a bookworm who relishes discussing the texts he devoured. He exclaimed his excitement when recalling how he got invited to teach at SBCA, realizing he could get paid for doing what he loved. Yet beneath the humor lies a profound belief in the potential of young people to drive positive change. In his classes, he fosters a culture of critical thinking, actively inviting students to challenge his ideas while demanding strong arguments supported by data. “As a teacher, it is my task to make myself irrelevant. That means encouraging my students to be better than me. If they do not become better than me, I fail as a teacher,”  he expressed.

Mr. Isaac extends his service beyond teaching, remarkably, as an editor for 'Praksis,' promoting social democracy in Asia. He advocates for democracy by strengthening civil society through Government Watch (G-Watch) involvement, emphasizing transparency and accountability. As a current volunteer researcher, he focuses on pandemic-resilient movements and public education during COVID-19 and post. Isaac showcases the educators' transformative role in society through teaching and advocacy.

As the nation dons the cloak of heroism, remember that the tale is not confined to the pages of history. Within SBCA, the guards, cleaners, and professors illuminate the chapters of dedication, sacrifice, and selflessness. These modern-day heroes may not wear capes, but they carry the spirit of selfless service, etching their legacy in the very soul of the institution they serve.