Reports show that in the Philippines and around the world, millions of Filipinos work as domestic helpers, more commonly known as kasambahays. Behind their everyday duties lies quiet sacrifice—many leave their own families behind so they can help keep other households running smoothly, providing care, stability, and support that often go unnoticed.

To honor these everyday heroes, the Palawan Group of Companies, together with JCI Senate Philippines, once again paid tribute to outstanding household workers through the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards (KK Awards). Now in its 10th year, the program recognizes the dedication and commitment of Filipino kasambahays whose service helps strengthen homes, families, and communities across the country.

On Dec. 8, 2025, at the Valle Verde Country Club, the milestone celebration brought together kasambahays, their employers, and loved ones in an evening centered on gratitude and recognition. A total of 20 kasambahays from the 2024 and 2025 award cycles were honored for their years of dedicated service. Each of them received ₱100,000 in cash and access to a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) scholarship, which they may use for themselves or extend to their families to support further education, livelihood, and personal growth.

The 2024 honorees were Beth Papa, Randy Ballena Tapel, Ellen Rose Mabanta, Lyrie Jean Embang, Rowena Duque Brimon, Luzviminda Camitan, Baby Marecres Brazal, Lourdes Varquez, Mari Rose Batacao, and Wencesa Flores. Meanwhile, the 2025 awardees included Adelaida Caquilagan Cabagua, Maria R. Rubia, Rosalinda Resco, Ma. Victoria F. Enero, Arceli Buling, Kent Lemuel Holoyohoy Pahimutang, Jean Gapol Macarayo, Judith Caras, Ma. Lyn Alipo-on, and Crystal Gale Pallugna.

In his welcome remarks, Palawan Group president and CEO Karlo M. Castro underscored the vital role kasambahays play in Filipino homes, describing them as “the quiet heroes” whose work brings stability, safety, and peace of mind to families every day. He emphasized that their presence allows employers to be fully present at work, knowing that their homes and loved ones are in capable hands.

“To our awardees and finalists: Thank you very much for your commitment, your sacrifices, and the love you pour into the families you care for. From waking up early to make sure everyone has breakfast, to ensuring they sleep soundly—knowing that the next day, clean clothes and meals will be ready and waiting—you are the true pillars of these homes,” Karlo said in Filipino. “To the families and employers who nominated them, thank you for recognizing the value of the people who bring stability, safety, and order into your households.”

With a legacy spanning four decades, the Palawan Group has long recognized kasambahays as an important part of the communities it serves. Many are among the company’s most loyal customers, regularly availing of services such as pawning, remittances, and mobile load to support their families. This commitment has expanded through PalawanPay, one of the country’s fastest-growing e-wallet apps, which offers accessible and secure financial tools designed to meet everyday needs.

JCI Senate Philippines National executive vice president Mylene M. Dayrit likewise highlighted the significance of the awards, describing kasambahays as everyday leaders whose tireless dedication uplifts families and strengthens communities. She emphasized that while their work is often unseen, it forms the foundation of Filipino homes and society.

“We gather not merely to hand out awards, but to present a symbol of our deepest and most profound appreciation,” she said. “The Kasambahay Kasambuhay Pilipinas Awards has always been about recognizing the unsung heroes of the Filipino home.”

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Aruga Trophy, introduced in 2024 as a new symbol of recognition. Mylene explained that aruga goes beyond simple care, representing nurturing, protection, and service done with heart. The trophy features a figure holding a heart close to its chest, symbolizing the genuine love and concern kasambahays bring into the households they serve. Its base, inspired by the humble walis or broom, reflects the values of sipag, tiyaga, and sikap—the hardworking spirit that helps families stand strong every day.

For the first time, the KK Awards also extended recognition to overseas Filipino workers (OFW) serving as household helpers abroad. They were honored for the same resilience and dedication shown by local kasambahays, often while working far from their own families. The nomination process was made more accessible through PalawanPay, allowing employers, families, and friends to submit entries anytime and anywhere.

Palawan Group deputy chairman and co-founder Angelita M. Castro further emphasized the uniquely Filipino brand of care embodied by kasambahays. She noted how they often treat the families they serve as their own, reflecting a level of compassion and commitment that goes beyond duty.

“At Palawan Group, our corporate social responsibility philosophy is simple: We uplift communities by uplifting individuals,” she said. “We truly believe that kasambahays, who help build stronger families and more resilient communities, deserve to be honored and given this kind of opportunity to be honored and given a chance to upskill.”

Through sustained recognition and meaningful support, JCI Senate Philippines and the Palawan Group continue to honor the invaluable service of kasambahays, strengthening families, empowering individuals, and fostering a culture of gratitude that resonates across Filipino homes nationwide.