From the quiet hills and coastal breeze of Tolosa, Leyte, rises a leader whose life story is deeply rooted in the belief that education transforms communities.
Dr. Ronelo Al K. Firmo, the newly appointed OIC–Regional Director of the Department of Education in Eastern Visayas, traces his lineage to the Kahano clan—long known as a family with many educators.
Growing up in a town where the school often doubled as a hub for local gatherings, Firmo saw firsthand how education was not just about classrooms and lessons, but about shaping futures.
That conviction fueled his steady climb through the ranks of DepEd, beginning with local school administration before moving to higher leadership posts.
As Schools Division Superintendent of Leyte, Firmo became known for introducing innovative programs such as Project TIED (Technology Integration in Education), which equipped teachers with ICT tools and training to produce digital learning materials.
He also spearheaded the province’s first instructional manuals for Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE), providing consistent references for teachers.
Firmo’s leadership style blends technological modernization with practical solutions.
His automation of Notices of Step Increment (NOSI) streamlined salary adjustments for teachers—cutting delays that often hampered those in far-flung schools. These reforms earned him the 2018 Most Outstanding Schools Division Superintendent award in Eastern Visayas and a spot as a finalist for the 2019 Gawad CES Presidential Award.
In 2023, he was named Assistant Regional Director for Eastern Visayas, expanding his responsibilities to include disaster risk reduction, teacher training, and regional school oversight.
Just this June, he led Oplan Balik Eskwela preparations to ensure a smooth school opening, emphasizing cooperation among educators, parents, and partner agencies.
Now at the helm as OIC–Regional Director, Firmo’s leadership is anchored on the guiding vision “Region 8 is GREAT,” reflecting priorities in governance, resilience, educational outcomes, accountability, and technological advancement.
His approach aligns with the 5-Point Agenda of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, with an emphasis on transparency, partnerships, and learner-centered initiatives.
“I am deeply honored to return to my home region to serve our learners, teachers, and communities,” Firmo says.
“Eastern Visayas has great potential. With strong governance, collaborative partnerships, and a united commitment to quality education, we will make Region 8 truly GREAT.”
From Tolosa’s hills to the halls of regional leadership, Dr. Ronelo Al K. Firmo carries with him the values of his hometown—grounded in service, driven by innovation, and guided by a vision where education becomes every learner’s bridge to a better life.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews