President’s Hall, Malacañan Palace
August 31, 2023

“May this accomplishment reinvigorate your drive to selflessly serve the country and may you continue to be a shining example to our fellow workers in government and continue to provide service to our fellow citizens,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stressed as he honored two (2) distinguished Filipinos for their exceptional contributions in the field of healthcare and government service in the Philippines.

The President bestowed the Order of National Scientist on Dr. Carmencita Padilla for her achievements in the fields of medicine and genetics, while he conferred the Presidential Medal of Merit on Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Allan Gepty for his role in the negotiations and ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

“Both Dr. Padilla and Asec. Gepty exemplify what it means to be a public servant and these awards are our form of recognition to them and a testament to that. Their service go above and beyond their typical duties and responsibilities,” President Marcos Jr. conveyed, noting that their achievements have created a positive and lasting impact to the Filipino people.

Prior to the conferment ceremony, President Marcos Jr. held a meeting with the two (2) awardees where they discussed various ways to further improve communities and sectors of the economy by strengthening and prioritizing the country’s research and development, as well as science and technology.

The Order of National Scientist is awarded pursuant to Presidential Decree (PD) 1003-A, recognizing outstanding Filipino individuals for their achievements and significant contributions to the field of science and technology. On the other hand, the Presidential Medal of Merit is one of the highest awards given by the President to individuals for their exceptional contributions to nation-building and government service.

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