Philippines Honors “Three Acts of Goodness” Schools Department of Education Affirms the Movement’s Role in Inspiring Harmony

By Riv Shi – Bacolod, Philippines
November 20, 2025

The 10th Three Acts of Goodness Campus Awards Ceremony was held on November 17 at Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple in the Philippines. Representatives from 199 schools across 11 cities in Negros Occidental gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements in kindness and positive action. With the theme “Spreading Compassion, Promoting Harmony,” the ceremony highlighted the Three Acts of Goodness—Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts—and emphasized how these practices inspire meaningful action across different regions. Hosted by Charity B. Duremdez, the event unfolded in a warm yet dignified setting, guiding participants through years of collective effort and accomplishment.

“Welcome to all educators and teachers from each district,” said Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan. Through a story from Fo Guang Shan’s founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, he reminded everyone that academic degrees are valuable, but personal moral character defines true success. “From the motto ‘When Everyone Practices the Three Acts of Goodness, the World Becomes Better,’ we see how essential the Three Acts truly are,” he said. He highlighted real-life examples: “If everyone practices the Three Acts, public safety improves. If everyone practices the Three Acts, relationships naturally flourish.” These values, he added, represent compassion and wisdom—the essence of Buddhism.

Venerable Miaojing, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and Executive Director of the Philippines’ Three Acts of Goodness Campus Program, delivered the welcome remarks. Ten years ago, there were only 50 participating schools; last year the number grew to 350, and this year it has reached 399 schools across various islands and districts. “Venerable Master Hsing Yun valued education deeply and emphasized the Three Acts of Goodness. Once he set a vision, he acted upon it. We are grateful that every Three Acts of Goodness school has confidence in the movement and implements it well. May the Three Acts continue to flourish across the Philippines and influence the world.”

Department of Education representative Felix Pela Pen shared that he was deeply inspired by Most Venerable Hsin Bau's address. He noted that the Three Acts of Goodness go beyond academic performance—they shape one’s character. He also spoke of how educators become more passionate and socially engaged through the movement. Witnessing Most Venerable Hsin Bau’s dialogue with Pope Francis at the Vatican, he felt the Three Acts embodied humility and harmonious coexistence. “Many children in our communities lack warmth and attention in their homes,” he said, “but in Three Acts Schools, they find hope and compassion.”

School leaders from 11 cities in Negros, along with guests from various religious and cultural backgrounds, attended the ceremony. One of the highlights was a vibrant performance by students from Sagay National High School, showcasing the creativity and energy of today's youth and adding brilliance to the program.

The awards portion reached its climax as recipients were called to the stage in four groups, receiving recognition from Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Venerable Yong Guang, Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Philippines, and Venerable Miaojing. Leaders from each district accepted the honors on behalf of their schools. Every awardee’s dedication and selfless efforts were acknowledged, inspiring all attendees with a strong sense of positivity and purpose.

More than a recognition of outstanding achievements, the ceremony served as a spiritual reminder to educators and participants alike: no matter the challenges of daily life, even the smallest act of kindness has the power to illuminate others and transform the world.

At the close of the event, Ramir B. Uytico, District Superintendent of Negros, presented a certificate of recognition to Most Venerable Hsin Bau, affirming the significance of the Three Acts of Goodness and expressing gratitude for his continuous support. He praised VMost Venerable Hsin Bau’s compassion, which has motivated countless individuals, benefited society, and contributed meaningfully to the promotion of Humanistic Buddhism and social harmony. He expressed hope that even more acts of goodness will continue to spread in the future.

As the ceremony concluded successfully, participants departed with hearts filled with inspiration and positive energy, hopeful that every seed of goodness planted today will blossom into abundant fruits in the days to come.