Adamson University (Philippines) President Fr. Gregg L. Bañaga, Jr., C.M. explained the rationale of the St. Vincent de Paul National Awards. It is, in essence, a recognition of the unity and synergy of people and organizations working together towards the empowerment of poor communities to take responsibility and direction for their own destiny and to change the unjust structures that keep them in poverty.

From their press release…

Adamson University held the 1^st St. Vincent de Paul National Awards at the Adamson University Theater last Sept. 26, 2010.

Proclaimed winner of the SVP Award was the project “Transforming Agri-Based Poor Household to become Micro-Entrepreneur” in Gingoog, Misamis Oriental run by the Katilingbanong Pamahandi sa Mindanaw Foundation, Inc. The KPMFI received a glass trophy and a check worth P100,000.

Seven nominees, including the KPMFI, coming from the three major island groups in the Philippines Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao were submitted to the panel of evaluators for consideration. These were: the Aeta Integrated Community Development Program in Bamban, Tarlac and Mabalacat, Pampanga – run by the Office for Community Development, University of Santo Tomas; Building Darusalams Among Urban Poor Muslims in Pagadian City – run by the Socio-Pastoral Institute and Ummah Fi Salam; the LASAC Experience in the Institutionalization of the Poorest Women in Lobo and San Juan, Batangas City – run by the Lipa Archdiocsan Social Action Commission (LASAC); the Manna Ministry in Cebu City – run by the Jesu Christi Community; the Sama-sama sa Malusog na Barangay in Malate, Manila – run by the Manila Doctors Hospital; the St. Hannibal Housing Project in Pasay City – run by the St. Hannibal Empowerment Center, Inc. and Rogationist Fathers; and, the Transforming Agri-Based Poor Household to become Micro-Entrepreneur in Gingoog, Misamis Oriental – run by the Katilingbanong Pamahandi sa Mindanaw Foundation, Inc.  The Systemic Change criteria of long-range social impact, sustainability, replicability and innovation, plus collaboration and cultural impact were used. While only one winner was named, the non-winning nominees each received a plaque of honor recognizing their efforts in helping the poor achieve a better quality of life.

Special awards were also given. The Blessed Frederic Ozanam Award went to Maguid A. Maruhom, a leading figure of the Umma Fi Salam (Building Darusalams Project) based in Pagadian City. Noemi C. Henon from the St. Hannibal Empowerment Center in Pasay City received the St. Louise de Marillac Award.

In his welcome remarks, Adamson University President Fr. Gregg L. Bañaga, Jr., C.M. explained the rationale of the St. Vincent de Paul National Awards. It is, in essence, a recognition of the unity and synergy of people and organizations working together towards the empowerment of poor communities to take responsibility and direction for their own destiny and to change the unjust structures that keep them in poverty. Named after St. Vincent de Paul, who together with St. Louise de Marillac, institutionalized organized charity in 17^th-century France, the awards is also a means to encourage the pursuit of the new Vincentian paradigm of Systemic Change. This is a more effective approach to helping the poor and a far better alternative to mere dole-out or almsgiving.

In closing the program, Fr. Rolly Santos, C.M., Provincial Visitor of the Congregation of the Mission, expressed his deep appreciation for what the nominees were doing for the benefit of the poor. He said that St. Vincent must be smiling in heaven at that very moment that the awarding ceremonies were being held for what the nominated organizations were doing were a continuation of what he started.

Present in the ceremonies were representatives of the seven nominees, their community leaders and partners, and the University community. Also in attendance were members of the Vincentian Family branches, other religious organizations, NGOs and private individuals.