Prof. Pascual earns Gawad ng Lingkod Bayad Regional & Semi-National Awardee.
In recognition of her outstanding service and unwavering commitment to public education, Dr. Gladys L. Pascual, Professor IV of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), Bontoc, was honored as one of the 2025 Gawad ng Lingkod Bayan Regional Winners and Sem-National Awardee during the “Pasasalamat at Pagkilala: Parangal sa mga Natatanging Lingkod Bayani at Katuwang sa Serbisyo Publiko”
The ceremony, organized by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Regional Office VIII, was held on October 2, 2025, at the Leyte Normal University Ballroom Hall in Tacloban City and was part of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) celebration.
The event gathered exemplary civil servants and partners whose dedication and service embody the CSC’s theme, “Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani.”
Dr. Pascual’s recognition highlights her long-standing contribution to public service, particularly in advancing academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership in higher education. She earned her Master’s degree in Aquaculture and later completed her Ph.D. in Applied Biological Sciences, specializing in Aquaculture, at Ghent University in Belgium, supported by a Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS) scholarship.
Her role at SLSU–Bontoc has been instrumental in strengthening extension programs that uplift local livelihoods and promote inclusive development in Southern Leyte.
When asked where she draws her inspiration and compassion to serve, Pascual shared that she was privileged to be exposed to volunteer work and church outreach programs at a young age. “Seeing how others found fulfillment in serving people inspired me, and I wanted to experience that same sense of purpose,” she expressed.
CSC Regional Director Atty. Marilyn E. Taldo expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Pascual’s invaluable contribution and unwavering dedication, which helped make the 125th PCSA celebration both meaningful and memorable.
Regional awardees, like Dr. Pascual, represent the pool of exemplary civil servants eligible for national recognition, including the prestigious Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, conferred by the President of the Philippines.
“There are many challenges in serving others, but it truly helps to work with people who share the same passion. When burnout hits, you have someone to lift you up and keep you going,” Pascual added.
She admitted that her line of work is not easy, often leaving her questioning her worth as an educator, researcher, and extensionist. Yet hearing words like, ‘Ma’am Gladys, thank you for your help, we’ve finally started,’ serves as a powerful affirmation that all her efforts are truly worth it.
As the Civil Service Commission continues to honor individuals who elevate the standard of governance, Dr. Pascual’s achievement stands as a reminder that excellence in public service begins with the hearts of those who serve and is a powerful example of women’s leadership in the public sector.
Courtesy of Civil Service Commission Regional Office VIII Official Facebook Page.