CATBALOGAN CITY , Philippines – Local and international women leaders were commended for their impressive efforts in the recovery and rehabilitation activities in Yolanda-hit communities here.
These 26 women leaders, dubbed by the Philippine Information Agency 8 as “glimmers of hope†for serving as inspiration of hope and strength for typhoon survivors, were honored and given plaques of commendation at the PIA office in Tacloban Citylast Thursday.
“We call them the ‘glimmers of hope’ because they inspire and assist people in distress in their respective communities,†said PIA regional director Erlinda Tiu.
The 13 international “Glimmers of Hope†awardees are: Aileen Kitching of WHO; Unicef’s Briony Stevens, Nicole Hahn, Rory Villaluna, Aisley Falconer and Khrishna Palanisamy; Anna Mason (IFRC); Stella Ogunlade (UNHCR), Sandra Gani (UNFP), Faridah Kasuyo and Sarah Mace of UN OCHA CWC; Christy Marfil, IOM head in Ormoc; Caroline Blay, head of UNHCR in Ormoc City.
Local women leaders, also 13 of them, were Virginia Idano of DSWD-8; Paula Sydiongco of DOH-8; Karina Rosa Tiopes of DOT-8; Ma. Rosario Avestruz of LEYECO II; Joycie Alegre, NCCA, UP Tacloban; Jennifer Chico, PRC Leyte; Pauline Nayra, EV NGO; Cynthia Nierras, DTI; Imelda Laceras, DBM; Aileen San Jose, DA; Governor Sharee Ann Tan, Samar; Catbalogan City Mayor Stephanie Uy Tan and Mayor Remedios Petilla of Palo, Leyte.
The awarding also highlighted the Media Forum on Women Working for the Recovery and Rehabilitation of Yolanda-affected Communities in Eastern Visayas.