The prestigious Model OFW Family of the Year Awards (MOFYA) 2023 unveiled its national winners, honoring the exceptional achievements of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families in both seabased and landbased categories.
In the seabased category, Capt. Jessie M. Lorenzo from Region 6 clinched the national title. With a remarkable 35-year career as an OFW seafarer, Capt. Lorenzo’s journey was fueled by his noble aim to uplift the lives of his 12 siblings. Alongside his wife, Dr. Amelia, a dentist committed to public health and sustainable farming, the Lorenzos demonstrated unwavering dedication to family, social responsibility, and sustainable development. Their story of maintaining strong family bonds across distances through a dedicated radio room and Capt. Lorenzo’s decision for early retirement to prioritize family time left a lasting impact on the values of familial dedication and sustainable agriculture.
The landbased category saw Amir S. Hawari from Region 9 as its winner. With 33 years of overseas work, Mr. Hawari’s story is one of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his family’s future. Despite the physical separation, the Hawari family exemplifies strong bonds, mutual support, and shared success. Mr. Hawari’s dedication ensured his children received quality education, leading to their academic and professional achievements. The Hawari family’s journey is a testament to overcoming challenges through determination and hard work, serving as an inspiration to many.
Special awards were also announced, highlighting outstanding achievements in community service and entrepreneurship. Edwin T. Paragas and Family from Region 12 were recognized for their Outstanding Achievement in Community Project, showcasing their dedication to making a positive impact in their community. Helen G. Balerite and Family from Region 8 received the award for Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship, demonstrating exceptional prowess in building and sustaining a successful family business.
The MOFYA, an annual event, celebrates the hard work, sacrifices, and success of OFW families, showcasing best practices in nurturing family relationships despite distance and adversity. The award aims to highlight the positive contributions of OFWs to their families and society, emphasizing the role of strong family values, community service, and entrepreneurship in achieving holistic success.