07/08/2026
๐๐๐๐ง๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ฌ | Mar-ICON At All Times:
A Woman Who Embraces Every Role
Behind every role she fulfills lies an unwavering purposeโto uplift, educate, and inspire those around her.
Upon the undeniably heavy tasks and responsibilities of preparing lessons, managing students and parents, and at the same time fulfilling responsibilities as a solo parent, Ms. Maricon Valderamos-Manzo strives ahead despite obstacles faced by her.
โBe disciplined and firm in upholding rules, but never lose your compassion. I believe everyone carries burdens that we may never see, and sometimes, a little kindness and understanding can make those burdens a little lighter,โ this statement tells everything about her as a 10-year experienced member at Maryhill College Inc.
Ms. Maricon, more commonly known as โMs. Icon,โ was proudly appointed as the Basic Education Department (BED) Assistant Prefect of Disciplineโwho once had a teaching career at St. John Bosco Academy in Tayabas City, became an Administrative Assistant at a private school in Lucena City, and a graduating class adviser for five consecutive years at MC.
Taking a step back from the past, she was first hired by MC in 2017. But due to a sensitive pregnancy, it was advisable for her to take a one-year break in 2018. Despite the pause, it only marked the beginning of her journey, as she returned the following year and has since continued serving the institution for the past seven years.
There was a time when she doubted herself, hesitant to apply to well-known schools due to her lack of experience and professional license. Yet, through the lessons and growth she gained from previous roles, she found the courage to take that leap
At one point, Ms. Icon also aspired to pursue a work-from-home career. As much as she loves teaching, she acknowledges the challenges it btungโoften requiring more time at school than at home with her daughterโor at home. For her, a more flexible career once seemed like the key to achieving balance while still providing for her loved ones.
However, her discipline and initiative set her apart. She takes action even before being asked, guided by honesty and a habit of verifying facts before reacting. Because of this, she has earned the trust and respect of those around herโknown for listening to every side before making judgments or conclusions.
After all that she's been through, she might as well have experienced almost every emotion possibleโbut even so, those challenges taught her how professionalism and the importance of showing up every day regardless of what she personally has gone through, matters a lot more than sheโd ever admit.
All that she has encountered and embraced within the institution has paved the way for others to appreciate the knowledge, skills, and dedication she shares. This, in turn, strengthens her sense of purpose and drives her to give her best each day, knowing she has made a difference in the lives of students and colleagues.
As she states, โMy colleagues inspire me the most. Over the years, they have become more than just co-workers, they have become genuine friends who support and encourage me through both challenges and successes,โ speaking of how compassion can eventually embrace any situation with kindness among her peers.
Not only is she an icon for being a resilient teacher, reliable friend, professional colleague, committed assistant and a loving motherโabove all, she stands as a true beacon of inspiration.
Article by Gia Tan
Pubmat by Miah Caballero
