In search of unsung Filipina heroes
The Zonta Club of Makati and Environs (ZCME), with its partner Security Bank, is on the lookout for a new set of unsung Filipina heroes.
Now on its sixth edition, the Bravo Empowered Women Awards has opened nominations for Filipina trailblazers in eight categories: arts, culture and heritage; business; education; media and public affairs; STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics); social services; sports; and culinary arts (which was brought back after being replaced by tourism in 2023).
The brainchild of past ZCME president Mita Rufino, the biennial awards program was created to honor women’s unheralded success in their fields and personal advocacies.
Given to Filipino women who champion social change and economic progress in the country, the Bravo Awards was inspired by Rufino’s mother, Remedios Palanca Bantug, who left a legacy of helping those in need without seeking any form of recognition.
“She was helping the community. She was doing things for the government. She was doing things for the church. She was doing things for the elders,” said Rufino. “In fact, she built the plaza in our place with her own funds and put up a place there for the seniors.”
Although her efforts would finally be acknowledged later, Bantug didn’t do any of it for awards or attention. “She just did what she thought should be done,” Rufino added. Her mother’s steadfast charity inspired her to help shed light on Filipina trailblazers whose work in their respective fields benefiting the community have thus far gone unnoticed.
Searching far afield
“We can find a lot of unsung heroes who have not been recognized in the different areas of the Philippines, and hopefully we would focus really on the different regions,” she said.
Since 2015, the prestigious award has has been conferred on luminaries like chef Jessie Sincioco, Habi: The Textile Council of the Philippines’ Maribel Ongpin, accessories designer and entrepreneur Zarah Juan, rights advocate Susan Ople, and martial artist Margarita Ochoa.
The 2023 Bravo awardees include Celia Elumba, whose work in developing textiles helped promote local culture and economy; Lourdes delos Reyes, who built a company that supports Filipino chemists as well as empowers women; professor Jennie Jocson, who advocates for gender equality and inclusivity and whose team created the standards for providing ideal education for students; Dr. Cheryll Soriano, whose research revolves around using technology for the society’s collective good; Rebecca Angeles, who leads an organization that provides shelter, education, and livelihood opportunities to sex trafficking victims; lawyer Maria Caterina Lopa, who helps empower young Filipino women through sports; Dr. Rose Marie Mendoza, whose work in materials research, design research, new product development, and design protection helps rejuvenate local jobs, empower local small businesses, and conserve the environment; and chef Myrna Segismundo, who has helped promote Filipino cuisine abroad.
Criteria
Each nominee must be a Filipino citizen of good moral character, with an outstanding track record in her profession, championing an advocacy for at least three years by April, and has sustained a project for the improvement of society; with an important caveat of not having received recognition from any other award-giving body beforehand. (Zonta members and Security Bank employees are automatically disqualified.)
“This event marks more than just a recognition of achievements. It’s a celebration of women whose brilliance might otherwise have gone unnoticed. Women who have devoted their lives to creating positive change and uplifting others without seeking the spotlight,” said Joanne Zapanta-Andrada, ZCME president.
“The Bravo Empowered Women Awards was born out of a simple yet profound mission: to uncover and honor the raw, often hidden talents of Filipinas who have made significant contributions to society,” Zapanta-Andrada said. “These women may not have previously received any recognition, but their work has shaped communities, advanced social progress, and inspired countless others to rise above the challenges. By shining a light on their achievements, we hope to emphasize the value of service, dedication, and purpose in driving change.”
She emphasized the role of women as role models in a developing country like the Philippines. “When women lead with integrity, compassion, and resilience, they pave the way for others to follow. They break barriers and challenge norms, creating a ripple effect that uplifts not just individuals, but also entire communities.”
“We believe in the power of women to drive change and foster growth,” said Tanya Deakin, Security Bank first vice president and corporate communications division head. “We recognize that when women succeed, communities thrive and the ripple effect of their success can be felt far and wide.”
Deadline of nominations is on April 30. Visit securitybank.com/bravoawards.
