The Marilag Awards is an annual event that recognizes Filipina Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)-Regional Community Leaders and Family Welfare Officers all over the country as an acknowledgement and appreciation of their relentless efforts in providing assistance to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and its clientele. Contributed photo

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – Regional Welfare Office VII recognized the achievements and contributions of women OFWs in the region through the Marilag Awards 2023 held at One Central Hotel, Cebu City on Friday, March 31, 2023.

This year’s theme was DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality, which highlighted women OFWs who ventured and became successful through digital innovations and technology.

The following Marilag awardees in the region shared their inspiring and empowering messages with the participants to make a positive difference and fuel their vision with earnest passion and devotion:

1. OFW Lovely C. Balili – Bohol Province

2. OFW Jeralyn A. Cinco – Cebu Province

3. OFW Jeramie D. Saguban – Negros Oriental Province

4. OFW Lyn O. Calibo – Siqujor Province

Balili is from Barangay Centro, Tubigon town, according to Mayor William Jao.

In a post, the Mayor congratulated Miss Balili for giving honor and pride to the Municipality of Tubigon.

Aside from the recognition plaque, the Regional Marilag Awardees also received cash prizes awarded by Martel R. Dasayon, OWWA 7 Regional Director; Reynaldo B. Jacalan, Supervising Administrative Officer; and Ms. Dineza Z. Gelle, GAD Focal Person.

Also part of the successful event was a Seminar on Gender and Development in the Digital World discussed by Dr. Rosemarie C. Gonato, Psychotherapist which emphasized the critical role of women in innovation and technology and highlighted the importance of women’s digital inclusion in building prosperous and sustainable economies.

The Marilag Awards is an annual program that aims to recognize Filipina Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)-Regional Community Leaders and Family Welfare Officers all over the country as an acknowledgement and appreciation of their relentless efforts in providing assistance to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and its clientele. 

The awards are given to returning Filipina migrant workers in recognition of their extraordinary efforts, sacrifice, dedication, and advocacy to their communities.