OWWA-7 awards OFWs' families

CEBU, Philippines - Families of two Overseas Filipino Workers were awarded yesterday in line the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration 5th Annual Search for the “2009 Model OFW of the Year Award.”

The awardees were chosen among the six finalists from Cebu and Bohol provinces.

The family of Dioscoro Ayag Jr., from Tagbilaran City, Bohol won the land-based category while the family of Rudy Española from Barangay Inayagan, Naga, Cebu received the Model OFW Family of the Year award in the sea-based category.

Ayag is working as an HR consultant in Saudi American Bank for more than 20 years already while Española is employed in a shipping firm as a chief officer.

Both winners received P20, 000 cash and a trophy each courtesy of Globe and the Banco de Oro’s “Asenso Kabayan Savings Account” with initial deposit of P3,000 as well as SM gift certificates worth P2,000 also courtesy of BDO.

OWWA said the winners represent a “wholesome” family, have strong involvement in the community, and successful in managing their family finances and the education of their family members.

The winners will represent Region 7 and will compete in the National MOFYA in Manila on November 6.

The award aims to give honor and recognition to the outstanding achievements of the Overseas Filipino Workers and their families. The annual MOFYA search is for Filipino migrant workers who have managed the impact of overseas employment and maintained strong family ties.

They are model OFWs who have used the gains of working abroad to their best advantage, are achievers in both their professions and education, and have made an outstanding impact in their community. — Johanna T. Natavio/WAB (THE FREEMAN)