Seven exemplary Filipinos were among this year’s recipients of the annual Dakilang Bayani Awards given by the Philippine Consulate in Dubai.
Among the honourees of this year’s Dakilang Bayani award were fashion designer Michael Cinco; Angel Tesorero, senior reporter at UAE-based Gulf News; Dr Mary Jane Alvero-Al Mahdi, Group CEO of Prime Group of Companies; Fevie Laurilla, founder of trading company; Ace Lester Quijada, financial consultant; Josie Conlu, community organizer; and Lalaine Chu-Benitez, founder of Illustrado Magazine.
The award was given by the Office of the Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates to outstanding overseas Filipinos.
The title Dakilang Bayani is the highest award given by the Philippine Consulate in Dubai to extraordinary Filipino expats in the UAE.
"The award is in recognition, not only of talents, abilities and achievements, but most importantly of selfless service to the community," the consulate said in a statement.
According to the consulate, the selection was based on the nominations submitted by the Filipino Community which identified the awardees’ achievements and contributions to society.
Five other Filipino leaders who made it to the final list were also recognized for their equally notable good works to the community. They are Francisco Boton, Emelina Parcia, Richard Zulueta, Ion Gonzaga, and Lou Parroco.
The annual recognition started in 2016 to inspire Filipinos in Dubai to actively engage in serving the community while working as an overseas Filipino.