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NAMRIA was placed on the map of distinction when the much coveted and prestigious Dangal ng Bayan Award was conferred on Director Virgilio F. Basa of the Remote Sensing and Resource Data Analysis Department. He received the award from Her Excellency President Gloria M. Arroyo during the ceremony held on 19 September 2008 at the Malacañang Palace. The yearly search for the Philippines’ outstanding public officials and employees is spearheaded by the nation’s Civil Service Commission (CSC).
He was one of those chosen from among other nominees, together with Nelly Banaag (posthumous), Secondary School Teacher III, Iniego S. Collantes, Jr., Forester III, Adela B. Cortez, State Auditor II, Naida G. Lasangre, Instructor II, Evelyn R. Reonal, Cashier I and,Wenifreda V. Soto, Midwife III.
According to the CSC guidelines, the Dangal ng Bayan Award is conferred on an individual for performance or extraordinary act or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior. The basis for this is the employee’s observance of the eight (8) norms of behavior provided under Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees: Commitment to Public Interest, Professionalism, Justness and Sincerity, Political Neutrality, Responsiveness to the Public, Nationalism and Patriotism, Commitment to Democracy, and Simple Living.
The criteria for evaluating exemplary conduct and ethical behavior for the award are based on the quality and consistency of behavioral performance and its impact, risk or temptation inherent in the work, obscurity of the position, years of service, and other similar circumstances or considerations in favor of the nominee.
With his impeccable track record as a civil servant, and an unsullied reputation, he passed the selection process with flying colors. Director Basa is cited for his passion in environmental and land management and for his integrity in an otherwise temptation-filled position. Although risky, he maintained his strict adherence to land classification policies, which stopped illegal occupation and claims of large companies for development plans of public lands. Truly a beacon of justice, he likewise supported lowly claimants through the land titling program of the government. He continues to serve at the pleasure of the public, and his fortitude remains firm for his country, despite more lucrative calls for work elsewhere.
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