The UNESCO Service Awards was recently given to women who excelled in their field of expertise at the Isla Ballroom of Shangri-La Edsa Hotel in Ortigas.
The event, dubbed The Power of Feminism, was conceptualized to honor UNESCO women achievers under the chairmanship of Ambassador Gion Gounet, UN Ambassador of Goodwill.
Former First Lady Imelda Marcos was the special guest of honor the awarding ceremony. She spoke on the importance of women’s roles in society. She mentioned that women empowerment is visible and is felt globally, as seen in the success of women leaders. The event was hosted by Issa Litton, one of the awardees.
A cultural show featuring folk dances from the Philippines and Korea was presented. A fashion show depicting different costumes from Indonesia, was also seen.
Leading the list of awardees in this biennial event is businesswoman and philanthropist Eimee Cragun. She also represented the country in the Mrs. World Beauty Pageant in Russia last year. Other honorees: Patricia Victorino, Religious Affairs; Lori Beredo, Social Tourism; Carlyn Manning, Institutional Music; Elsa Payumo, Social Relations; Issa Litton, Community Service through Media; Ma. Christina Galang Caedo, Culture; Pinky Tobiano, Medical Science and Elena Yee, Dance Sports.