Franco Rino C. Apoyon, Assistant School Principal II of Kabasalan National High School, began his journey as an educator in the Department of Education at his beloved alma mater, Kabasalan National High School. Right after graduating in 2012, he patiently waited for the right opportunity to serve in the field of education. Embracing every job offer with humility despite the limitations in resources, he rose to every challenge with perseverance and purpose, viewing each experience as a stepping stone toward a fulfilling and meaningful career in teaching and leadership.

As someone who grew up in a family where necessities are the only things they could afford, at an early age Sir Poy had his grip believing two truths about life; “that education is a way out of poverty, and that excellence in learning is not just for recognition but for survival and hope”. That was when he started to pursue being on top of the class for him to begin reaching what he believed to be his success in life. He finished with Latin Honors in college, and passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers, yet, more than his own effort and perseverance, he credits his teachers as his greatest influence, not just for their lessons but for their unwavering presence, care, and belief in him. He learned that “the kindness of educators can change lives,” not just by teaching subjects, but by lifting someone who feels they have no ladder.

After earning his teaching license, he was able to receive a permanent item as a School Teacher 1 in 2013 and was promoted to Senior High School Teacher III three years later still at Kabasalan NHS. His pursuit to continuously climb up the ladder to his career has not been an easy path. But perseverance has not failed him; it allowed him to grow in leadership, mentorship and understanding how to be of support to both learners and fellow teachers in meaningful ways. He then became the Head Teacher II of the Science Department in the same institution.

In 2024, he successfully passed the National Qualifying Examination for School Heads (NQESH) on his first attempt. On his pursuit to apply for a higher position, he ranked first among others for both Principal and Assistant Principal roles, but he made the unconventional choice to serve as Assistant School Principal II for Senior High School at Kabasalan NHS for he saw the opportunity to make a more meaningful impact where it mattered most, aiming to create a platform where every Senior High School teacher could be seen, heard, and valued.

Sir Poy’s leadership advocacy seemed to be innate and genuine when he initiated the Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (YES-O) at Kabasalan NHS which he introduced to empower youth as stewards and voices for the environment. The program went beyond the school walls, leading to positive changes like decreased littering and regular cleanup drives, inspiring other schools in Western Mindanao. This innovation doesn’t only provide the learners with vigor and remain motivated to step up and help Sir Poy with the journey, but his co-teachers support as well. He made sure to publicly acknowledge effort, not just for big wins but for small, everyday progress from teachers. He advocates for inclusive and quality education by ensuring every student is considered in programs, policies, and schedules, never settling for “good enough”. 

As he now leads with the intention of also helping, caring and believing in his community, striving to create a school where no one feels forgotten and where dignity, values, love and opportunity are standard, Sir Poy lived to be a true inspiration. He was recognized as a Regional Awardee of the CSC Pag-Asa Award (Individual Category) last August 13, 2025, at Isabela City, Basilan Province during the 2025 Regional Convention of Personnel Officers (RCPO). The awarding gave highlights to the incomparable dedication of civil servants whose lives became truly remarkable in their work, agency and community.

Sir Poy believes the recognition was earned not just through achievements, but through a life lived “with a heart for others”. As he is now again pursuing, with the support of the school and community, to finally fulfill making Kabasalan NHS a Senior High School Stand Alone, his ultimate vision is to sustain the good leadership that places learners and teachers at the center. He dreams of schools where every teacher is deeply valued, professional development is embedded, and learners have ample opportunities to discover and shine, cultivating communities of trust, innovation, and excellence. 

“Leadership isn’t just about being in charge, it is about helping others become their best,” he says, “and about serving with your whole heart.”