Amid friendship, engaging conver-sation and laughter, the 2013 Search for The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service (TOWNS) was launched at Museo Pambata last October 25. Hosted by Nina Yuson (Education 1992), CEO of the multi-awarded Children’s Museum, not even Ofel’s typhoon signal No. 1 could dampen the spirit.
Put a flock of accomplished women under one roof and the buzz couldn’t be more interesting. Hopping from one table to another, the discussion ranges from the global climate change, to the latest instant-dengue-test on a paper strip, to customized jewelry, to USAID grants and the appointment of June Pagaduan Lopez (Medicine, 1989) as a member expert of the UN subcommittee on the prevention of torture.
Making the occasion more memorable, retired Ambassador Rosalinda Tirona (Diplomacy, 1983) donated her collection of dolls and puppets to TOWNS. The beautiful display is called “Crossing Afro-Asian Bridges.” Rare wooden antique figures from Burma, Burundi, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Rwanda, the Seychelles, Tanzania and Uganda — countries where Ambassador Tirona had served in the diplomatic corps. In her turnover speech she said that “to promote peace, it is essential that there be appreciation of each other’s culture as depicted in the dolls... If children appreciate the value of peace, we can look forward to a more peaceful and happier world for children and mankind.”
Scientists, lawyers, businesswomen, media stars, sports champions, educators, women’s rights advocate and forensic pathologist — it was a gathering of Superwomen bonded in their confidence of their achievements, and happy with the camaraderie.
Present were: Mel Alonzo (Government Service, 1992), Mina Aquino, Espie Cabral (Medicine, 1986), Cora Claudio (Science and Technology), Bong Coo (Sports, 1986), Laura David, Rina David, Lilia De Lima, Tatie Fortun, Lorna Kapunan (Law, 1995), Nina Lim-Yuson (Education, 1992), Ester Ogena (Education, 1998), Yoly Ong (Communications: Social Marketing, 1995), Elsa Payumo (Tourism), Alyssa Peleo-Alampay (Science), Linda Tirona, Emy Villar (Education and Guidance Counseling, 1989), Cathy Vistro-Yu (Education, 2007).
What makes TOWNS different from the many other awards that proliferate yearly? For one, TOWNS is on its 14th search, from 1974 when it started, and every three years hence. There are only 149 awardees to date. An eminent panel headed by Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, who is also a TOWNS awardee, will go through the stringent judging process.
The evaluation considers the personal, career, and other relevant measures of accomplishments:
Achievement. An evaluation of the nominee’s exceptional accomplishments in her line of specialization or advocacy.
It must be proven that she is distinguished in her particular field or advocacy, the distinction backed up by solid achievements, not mere reliance on her public image. She must have done outstanding work even in a small scale as long as it has contributed to the field of knowledge, national well-being, and upliftment of the Filipino people.
Personality. An evaluation of a well-balanced personality as evidenced by certain manifestations, which would make the nominee worthy of emulation.
She must be vibrant and articulate, poised and self-confident, dignified and respectable, and intellectually honest.
Commitment. An evaluation of dedication and complete involvement in projects of great significance.
She must have shown a totally committed pursuit of a well-defined objective leading to the infusion of knowledge, promotion of well-being and/or upliftment of our nation and our people.
Pioneering Zeal. An evaluation of her ardent interest and accomplishments in a line of activity that is out of the usual and stereotyped.
She should preferably possess a pioneering spirit and has achieved success despite the challenges attendant to new endeavors.
Nominations for TOWNS are open to all Filipina citizens, 21-45 years old. Any person, organization, or entity may nominate one or more candidates provided:
• She signs the prescribed nomination form, attesting to all facts contained, gives consent to publication of said facts, and indicates willingness and ability to attend the TOWNS press conference and awarding rites in Manila, if adjudged a winner.
• Nominations must be accompanied by a certified true copy of the nominee’s birth certificate or any equivalent proof of the date and place of birth, with five copies of her latest picture (2” x 2”, colored) with name printed at the back.
• If adjudged a winner, the nominee will become a member of the TOWNS Foundation and must participate in all its activities.
• The decision of the Board of Judges is final.
Forms can be downloaded from www.towns.org.ph. Deadline for submission is June 30, 2013. TOWNS Secretariat c/o Aura C. Matias, National Engineering Center, Juinio Hall, UP Campus, QC, tel. no. 9261516, telefax no. 9224714, Email: towns.2013awards@ gmail.com TOWNS c/o Evelyn Singson 2004 West Tower, Philippine Stock Exchange Center, Exchange Road, Pasig City, tel. no. 6374260.
TOWNS awardees are true role models for Filipino women and girls who wish to dedicate themselves to nation-building. Once selected, they are expected to continue their excellent work as leaders in their respective fields.
* * *
Email: citizenyfeedback@gmail.com