The Bayani Ka! Awards, organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), aims to celebrate and acknowledge the efforts of volunteers across the Philippines who have gone above and beyond in serving their communities. This year, the spotlight shined on Caraga Region, as it produced exemplary winners whose selfless service has transformed lives and created positive change in their communities.
Three community volunteers from the Caraga Region were honored in distinct categories during the annual Bayani Ka! Awards on October 10, 2024, held at Sequoia Hotel in Quezon City. Hawudon Nelbert Sahay received the Indigenous People (IP) Welfare category, Quinciano Trimidal was recognized for the Person With Disability (PWD) category, while Virginia Cuzares was awarded for her contributions as a Senior Citizen volunteer.
IP Welfare: Championing Indigenous Rights and Culture
Hawudon Nelbert Sahay, an Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) from Soriano, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, has worked tirelessly in advocating for the rights and welfare of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of his community.
Nelbert is a key figure in the protection and promotion of Indigenous culture and identity, has led the implementation of the KALAHI – CIDSS IP Cultural Center community sub-project in Tagbina, which serves as the office of Mandaya and Manobo Tribes. This facility is not only responsive to the needs of the community but serves as a venue to showcase IP’s tradition and culture.
Through his service he was able to respond to the needs of the IP community, he has shown the importance of active participation in the development process through the program’s community-driven development approach.
“Ang ating tagumpay ay bunga ng sama-samang pagsisikap, malasakit, at dedikasyon para sa ikabubuti ng ating lipunan. At ito po ang ipinapaalala sa atin ng Bayani Ka Awards. Ang bawat isa sa atin ay may kakayahang maging bayani sa ating sariling paraan (Our success is the result of collective effort, compassion, and dedication for the betterment of our community. This is what the Bayani Ka Awards reminds us, that each of us has the ability to be a hero in our own way),” Nelbert remarked.
Exceptional PWD Volunteer: Overcoming Barriers, Inspiring Others
Quinciano Trimidal is a Person With Disability (PWD) from Campbagang, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. Despite his limitations, Taytay Lolong, as he is fondly called, serves as Barangay Development Council-Technical Working Group (BDC – TWG) Chairperson, and a community volunteer for more than 4 years.
As a community volunteer, Tatay Lolong has broken barriers and inspired others to take an active role in community development, he recognized the importance of giving a voice to the community through active participation in community events and activities.
Quinciano highlights the importance of volunteerism through advocacy work and its impact on community development.
“Ang pagiging bayani ay hindi nasusukat sa laki ng ating nagawa, kundi sa malasakit at determinasyon na ibinuhos natin para makatulong sa iba. Nawa’y patuloy nating isabuhay ang diwa ng bayanihan at maging inspirasyon sa mas marami pang Pilipino (Heroism is not only measured by the impact of our actions, but by the compassion and determination we pour into helping others. May we continue to live out the spirit of bayanihan and be an inspiration to many more Filipinos),” Quinciano remarked.
Exceptional Senior Citizen Volunteer: Empowering through Experience
Virginia Cuzares is a community volunteer for 8 years in Barangay Javier, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. Lola Vergie selflessly dedicated her time, skills, and energy for community development. She has shown relentless dedication to volunteerism, despite her advanced age she played a crucial role in empowering the community by engaging in projects and initiatives.
As a community volunteer, she led the conduct of Alay Kalikasan and attended Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) meetings and assemblies. She also served as an advocate for community-driven development, inspiring others to actively participate and contribute to the development process.
With a lifetime of knowledge and experience, Lola Vergie emphasized the true meaning of being a “Bayani”.
“Ang tunay na bayani ay ang mga tahimik na nag-aalay ng kanilang oras, kaalaman, at talento para makatulong sa ating komunidad (True heroes are those who quietly dedicate their time, knowledge, and talents to help our community),” she said.
KALAHI – CIDSS Honors Everyday Heroes
KALAHI-CIDSS National Program Manager Atty. Bernadette Aquino Mapue-Joaquin highlights the importance of volunteerism or being a “bayani” in nation-building and sustainable development.
“Bagama’t mahaba ang pag-lalakbay na puno ng pagsubok hindi kami nag-iisa sa bawat hakbang kasama namin kayo [community volunteers], puno ng dedikasyon, pag-sisikap at pag-asa. Ang inyong walang sawang pag-lilingkod ay patunay na kayo ang bayani ng maka-bagong panahon (Even though the journey is long and filled with challenges, we are not alone – you’re with us [community volunteers], full of dedication, effort, and hope. Your tireless service is proof that you are the heroes of modern times),” Joaqin remarked.
The Bayani Ka! Award stands as a reminder that true change starts at the grassroots level, we can create a better, more inclusive future for all. By acknowledging these heroes, the DSWD hopes to encourage more Filipinos to engage in volunteerism and contribute to nation-building.
