TAGAYTAY CITY, Cavite —  Leadership is often seen as stepping forward with confidence and certainty. But for scholars of the Middle Managers Class (MMC) Batch 37 – Ani, leadership was not always straightforward. For many, it was something that didn’t come instantly, it was forged through challenges and change.  

For Paul Joseph M. Reyes, leadership once meant working quietly behind the scenes, focused on technical work and hesitant to step into a larger role. But as one of the scholars of the MMC 37, that understanding has begun to shift. 

“During the time that I was applying for this [MMC] program, hindi ko pa talaga pinlano na ngayong taon ito mangyayari… kasi feeling ko, hindi pa ako ready,” Mr. Reyes said.“Nung natanggap na ako sa program, ang una kong naramdaman ay kaba—kasi it’s a big step outside my comfort zone… pero of course, happy and excited pa rin ako.”

Paul Joseph M. Reyes of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) Central Office delivered his testimonial, sharing insights from his leadership journey.

For Mr. Reyes, who represents the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) Central Office, the journey became more than just a professional milestone. Being the first scholar from their agency and the youngest in the batch brought both pressure and purpose.

For Larie M. Dianco of the National Museum of the Philippines, the journey unfolded through a deeply personal and emotional transformation. He entered the program carrying uncertainty, not only about leadership but about life’s direction itself. His journey through the program, he said, was marked by both struggle and growth, navigating pressure, self-doubt, and the challenge of finding his place among fellow scholars. 

Larie M. Dianco of the National Museum of the Philippines  delivered his testimonial, sharing insights from his leadership journey.

“May mga sandaling pinagdudahan ko—sapat ba ako? Tama bang ako’y nasa ganitong dako? Kakayanin ko ba?” he shared.

The scholars shared these reflections on Saturday, 11 July 2026, during the closing program of MMC 37 held at the DAP Conference Center, marking the end of their six-month-long journey in the program. The event carried the theme “Black and Glitter,” with scholars clad in elegant black ensembles accented with shimmering details,

MMC 37 is composed of 46 scholars representing 34 government agencies across 13 regions, spanning from La Union in the north to South Cotabato in the south. 

In her welcome message, Center for CES Development Vice President Myda A. Nieves underscored the essence of the scholars’ journey in one word: makabuluhan.

“This afternoon, let us reflect on the word makabuluhan—meaningful, sensible, significant,” she said, framing the milestone as both a culmination and a continuation of purpose-driven leadership.

CCD Vice President Myda A. Nieves opened the program with a welcome message, setting the tone for the ceremony.

She emphasized that leadership in public service goes beyond completion of the program, calling on scholars to take on a greater responsibility. Highlighting the human side of governance, VP Nieves added that meaningful leadership is rooted in connection. “As public servants, the essence of our job lies in understanding the lives of the people we serve through profound connections,” she said, as she recognized the scholars’ growth and the impact they are set to make.

Adding highlight to the program, several scholars were recognized through special awards.

Paul Joseph M. Reyes was honored with the Diamond Within Award, while Cherish June G. Holongbayan of the Biodiversity Management Bureau Central Office received the Golden Award. Renato Reinier M. Vitorio of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Central Office was named recipient of the Glitter Award, and Rechelle C. Dueñas of the University of the Philippines National Capital Region took home the Black is Back Award. 

Sheigla Nerie V. David of Bulacan Agricultural State College – Region III was recognized with the Haute in Black Award, while Jerome S. Cruz of the Department of Transportation – Central Office received the 24K Magic Award. 

Under the Class Directors’ Awards, three scholars were named recipients of the Golden Pen Award (Best in Journal Writing): Mark Angelo A. Abando of the Philippine Rice Research Institute – Region III, Mary Angelie B. Sto. Domingo of the Philippine Space Agency – Central Office, and Dan Michael P. Carmelo of DPWH – Cordillera Administrative Region. 

Meanwhile, standout style during the event was also recognized. Gilbert V. Romarez of the Philippine Rice Research Institute – Region XII was awarded Best Dressed (Male) for his black coat with diamond-patterned gold details, while Elizabeth B. Omas-as of the Philippine Commission on Women – Central Office was named Best Dressed (Female) for her long black ensemble adorned with gold jewelry accents.

Closing the program, Senior Vice President for Programs Magdalena Mendoza reminded the scholars that being a PMDP scholar is both a privilege and a responsibility—an investment of the Filipino people that carries a greater expectation for public service. 

“Maglingkod nang may malasakit, integridad, at layunin para sa bayan.”

Senior Vice President Magdalena L. Mendoza formally closed the program with her message.