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 Empowered men and women honored

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte 

Filipinos here and abroad have been honored, once again, for their involvement in societal advocacies and selfless participation in nation-building. 

In the home front, several men and women leaders were recognized for their exemplary endeavors in the pursuit of their respective professions at an assemblage held recently at the Teatrino in Greenhills, San Juan.

Multi-hyphenate Joel Cruz led the roster of honorees, receiving citations for personal achievements as well as recognition for his business labels Aficionado (perfumery) and Takoya Tea (food kiosk). He was surrounded by his children all throughout the night.

The other award recipients included Miss World 1973 1st Princess Evangeline Pascual, show host John Nite, local chief executive Ina Alegre, PAO head Atty. Perfida Acosta, actors Lito Gruet, William Martinez, David Chua, and Ken Chan, lawyer and film director Vince Tañada, supermodel Gerone Olorocisimo-Demiar, animal rights advocate Eton Conception, influencer Melvin Tagulao, as well as media practitioners Maridol Ranoa-Bismarck and Pilar Mateo, among others.

Manila Times, SMNI network, Net 25 and V81 Radio were named News Agencies of the Year, Lunch Out Loud (LOL) as Best TV show, Cafe Claus as Best Dining Outlet, and Celergen as Best Wellness label.

"In the sixth edition of the Philippines' Empowered Men and Women, the organizers were in the lookout for exceptional individuals who contributed to nation building. Their resilience is incomparable. Some people draw strength from them.

"Life is what we make it, walang suku-an. Carry on with your personal thrusts. Continue to be human and humane to others. Service to the public needs pure heart and compassion," said Hon. Rowena Taduran, DSWD Undersecretary, in her keynote speech.

Several awardees were unable to be physically present during the awarding ceremonies. Among those who were honored in absentia were former presidential spokesperson Atty. Salvador Panelo,  Cong. Arjo Atayde, Miss Planet Philippines national director Wilbert Tolentino, Binibining Pilipinas 2022 1st runner-up Herlene Nicole Budol, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, film producer Chris Cahilig, and world renowned fashion designer Michael Cinco. 

Kim Rodriguez was named Female Star of the Night while Jak Roberto was the Male Star of the Night. 

Binibining Pilipinas 2021 2nd runner-up Meiji Cruz and former Mrs. Universe Australia Christine Escalate, together with film director Rom Burlat, Dante Salamat, and actor Teejay Marquez were named the Best Dressed personalities of the event.

Aside from the absentee recipients, the organizers also bestowed a posthumous citation to Noemi Tesorero, who followers fondly remember as "Mahal."