MANILA, Philippines – Filipino educator and UK headteacher Edison David received the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) Medal from Prince William on behalf of King Charles at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, May 13.

David, who earned a spot in the United Kingdom’s 2026 honors list for his contributions to British society through education, said receiving the MBE “was an extraordinary and deeply humbling experience.”

“This recognition reflects the collective efforts of the schools, colleagues, pupils, and communities I have had the privilege to work with throughout my career. I hope this moment inspires Filipinos around the world and highlights the important contribution our community continues to make internationally,” he said in a press statement.

The MBE, one of the UK’s most recognized honors, is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in fields including education, public service, charity, and community leadership.

David, who hails from Tarlac, is one of over 100 individuals honored in the 2026 King’s list with different awards, along with Hollywood stars Cynthia Erivo, who was also honored with an MBE; and Idris Elba, who was honored with a knighthood.

David said he wore a barong made in Lumban, Laguna — the embroidery capital of the Philippines — for the ceremony to showcase his Filipino roots.

“Wearing a barong from Lumban was especially important to me because I wanted to proudly represent Filipino heritage during such a significant occasion,” he said.

Giving back

David is part of an initiative being developed by the Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd) to address the findings of the  Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) pointing to a literacy crisis in the country.

“I am honored to support efforts to strengthen early reading in the Philippines and to contribute to the important work being led by the Department of Education. The opportunity to pilot a bespoke phonics program in selected school divisions represents an important step towards ensuring more Filipino children develop secure foundations in reading,” David said.

The press statement said that the collaboration with DepEd is “expected to include school benchmarking, literacy support, teacher development, and the sharing of effective educational practice between schools in the United Kingdom and the Philippines.” – Rappler.com