- Time Period: Post-WW2 Period
- Year of Institution: 19 September 2003
- Country: Republic of The Philippines
The Order of Lakandula (or Orden ni Lakandula in Filipino) stands as one of the Philippines’ most esteemed civilian honors, established on September 19, 2003. It is bestowed in recognition of exceptional political and civic merit, paying homage to Lakandula’s legacy of leadership, prudence, fortitude, courage, and resolve in serving one’s people.
As outlined in the Honors Code of the Philippines (Executive Order 236, September 19, 2003), the criteria for conferring the Order of Lakandula are delineated in Section 5, II. This prestigious award is granted to a Filipino or foreign citizen who:
- a. Demonstrates a lifelong dedication to the betterment of society through their actions and endeavors;
- b. Serves as a model of conduct and character for the Filipino people to emulate;
- c. Exhibits remarkable deeds warranting special recognition, such as enduring personal sacrifice for the preservation of democracy and the territorial integrity of the Philippines, dedicating oneself to peaceful conflict resolution, or displaying exceptional commitment to fostering mutual understanding, cultural exchange, justice, and respectful relationships among individuals; or
- d. Engages in acts traditionally acknowledged by presidential awards, including commendable political and civic service.
The Order of Lakandula Classes
There are seven classes or ranks for the Order of Lakandula:
Grand Collar (Supremo): Bestowed upon an individual who has endured significant hardships in defense of the democratic principles or territorial integrity of the Republic of the Philippines, or upon a former or current head of state or government.
Grand Cross (Bayani): Conferred upon an individual dedicated to resolving conflicts peacefully, serving as a role model for the Filipino people, or holding high-ranking positions such as Crown Prince, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House, Chief Justice, Foreign Minister, Ambassador, Undersecretary, or Assistant Secretary.
Grand Officer (Marangal na Pinuno): Granted to an individual demonstrating lifelong commitment to political and civic welfare, or holding positions such as Chargé d’affaires e.d., Minister, Minister Counselor, Consul General, Executive Director, or similar ranks.
Commander (Komandante): Bestowed upon individuals showing exceptional dedication to political and civic welfare, or holding positions like Chargé d’affaires a.i., Counselor, First Secretary, Consul General in an Embassy’s consular section, Director, or equivalent ranks.
Officer (Pinuno): Awarded to individuals with commendable dedication to political and civic welfare, or holding positions like Second Secretary, Consul, Assistant Director, or similar ranks.
Member (Kagawad): Given to individuals displaying meritorious dedication to political and civic welfare, or holding positions like Third Secretary, Vice Consul, Attaché, Principal Assistant, or equivalent ranks.Champion for Life (Kampeon Habang Buhay): The most recently established rank, created in 2006 by President Gloria M. Arroyo. Initially positioned after the Pinuno rank, it was later aligned with the Order of National Artists.
