The country’s top recognition for overseas Filipino workers took center stage at Malacañan Palace on November 20, 2025, as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. paid tribute to this year’s Bagong Bayani Award honorees. The ceremony placed the spotlight on OFWs whose contributions, sacrifices, and service have strengthened communities both abroad and at home.
Speaking before the awardees and their families, the President emphasized how Filipinos continue to earn admiration worldwide, recalling frequent remarks during his foreign visits praising the work ethic and excellence of Filipino migrants. He also acknowledged the emotional and personal cost of pursuing opportunities overseas, noting the challenges of long-distance family life.
At the event, he highlighted a range of ongoing government efforts intended to ease processes and strengthen support for OFWs. These include the digitization of key systems such as the OFW Travel Pass through the eGovPH App and the Online Employment Contract Verification System. He also pointed out that the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration has already issued hundreds of thousands of electronic cards designed to streamline access to government services. The administration’s initiatives also cover dedicated medical assistance through the OFW Hospital, the OWWA Botika, and expanded health programs for migrant workers.
The President further cited available aid under the AKSYON Fund for OFWs in distress, offering legal, financial, and medical support through DMW offices. He also noted the addition of an OFW Lounge at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to provide a more comfortable waiting area for travelers.
During the program, Marcos shared the historical roots of the award. “Kinikilala ng Bagong Bayani Awards ang kakayahan, karangalan, at kabutihang loob ng mga Pilipino na sa kabila ng pang-i-ibang bansa, ay nagagawang maipakita ang tunay na pagka-Pilipino. Naitaguyod [nila ang kanilang] mga pamilya, at komunidad nang walang pag-aalinlangan. Ito ang diwang nais makamit ng aking ama, ang dating Pangulong Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr., nang itatag niya ang Bagong Bayani Awards sa pamamagitan ng Letter of Instruction No. 1320 noong 1983,” he said.
This year’s set of honorees spans various sectors, including engineering, community service, arts and culture, maritime heroism, and reintegration success stories. The 2025 awardees are: Engineer Romaline Dizon Isla for Outstanding Employee; Eva Rasgo Mapa for Community and Social Service; Michael Palic Conjusta for Culture and the Arts; Captain Rolly Lapinig and the 18 Filipino crew of the MV MSC Aube F for Heroic Act; Captain Gaudencio Morales, Alexander Inday Sebastian, Elaine Vianca Figueroa, and Ruellyn Sarmiento Ribon for Successful Reintegration; Camille Jesalva for the Susan V. Ople Award; and Captain Gaudencio Capistrano Morales for the Captain Gregorio S. Oca Achievement Award.
The 21st edition of the Bagong Bayani Awards was organized by the Bagong Bayani Foundation, Inc., in coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, carrying the theme Ang Bagong Bayani: Inspirasyon at Pag-asa ng Pilipinas.
