CAGAYAN de Oro City — A physician recognized for her service to patients and communities, Dr. Raquelina Aguam Benito was named Bae a Rawaten 2026 during the Division of Lanao del Sur II’s World Teachers’ Day celebration on Oct. 6. 

Benito, known as Bae a Labi sa Ganassi, received the distinction at Torogan Hall of the division office. The title honors a woman recognized for her exemplary service and contributions to the community. 

She dedicated the recognition to the people of Lanao del Sur and the province’s teachers, saying service—not awards—has guided her career. 

“I never entered public service in order to receive awards,” Benito said. “The purpose was always the patient, the family, the community, the service.” 

Although she is not an educator by profession, Benito said she believes that sincere public service can teach others the value of compassion, integrity, commitment and love for the community.

“To our dear teachers, this celebration belongs to you. You plant seeds whose fruits you may never personally see,” she said. 

A record of service 

Benito’s previous honors include The Outstanding Filipino Physician Award in 2023, Most Outstanding Physician of the Year in 2014, Most Outstanding Chief of Hospital and a Lifetime Achievement Award in Health Governance.

 Her recognition came as educators gathered under the theme “Teachers, Ikaw Naman: Celebrating Educators, Building Peaceful Communities, Inspiring Brighter Generations.” 

Lanao del Sur Vice Gov. Mohammad Mujam R. Adiong also thanked teachers for their sacrifices and their role in the province’s development and peacebuilding efforts. 

“Your sacrifices, patience, and untiring efforts to educate our children, often going beyond the call of duty, are the bedrock of our province’s progress and peace,” Adiong said. 

Schools Division Superintendent Anna Zenaida A. Unter led the presentation of awards to outstanding teachers and personnel during the morning program. 

The daylong celebration also featured the “Teacher Hijabis Across Cultures: Beauty, Tradition, and Identity” gala, musical competitions and special awards recognizing personnel for their service.