MANILA, Sept. 27, 2013—Pro-Life Philippines Foundation will be recognizing individuals who have done a significant role in championing life values in their work and day-to-day endeavors through an awarding ceremony slated early next year.
Bearing the theme “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”, the group is gearing to have its first Pro-Life Awards on February 22 to “recognize the work of people from all sectors of society—individuals, companies, and NGOs who have done their part in upholding (the) much-cherished values of life, family, and marriage.”
“In a society confused and hurting because of the Culture of Death, the awards provide a timely message to our nation that there is hope for our country,” an article posted in www.prolife.org.ph read.
“Culture of Death” is the term used by the Catholic Church to describe the predominance of influences that go against its conventional stance in preserving the sanctity of life and marriage in the present generation.
Three primary awards will be given—Pro-Life Heroes, Pro-Life Champions, and the Sr. Pilar Verzosa Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Pro-Life Heroes award will be given to individuals whose actions have upheld life, family, and marriage values.
Those who promoted pro-life advocacy in their work, community, or church will be awarded with the Pro-Life Champions award. A special emphasis will be given to media practitioners who have used their work as an avenue for evangelization.
In honor of Pro-Life Philippines founder, the Sr. Pilar Verzosa Lifetime Achievement Award will be given to an individual who has dedicated his life to protect and promote life ideals, and help the community around him to grow through the tenets of pro-life ministry.
Verzosa, who guided the foundation for 35 years, died of Herniation Syndrome secondary to cerebral bleeding in September 2012. She was 67.
Ambassador Jose Villanueva Romero, Ambassador of the Philippines to Italy from 1986 to 1992, is the chairman of the selection committee. He will be assisted by Dr. Rey Echavez of Doctors for Life as vice chairman.
Nominations may be sent to prolifephilippinesawards2013@gmail.com or at life@prolife.org.ph. Interested parties may call the Pro-Life Philippines secretariat at 733-7027 for further inquiries. (Jennifer Orillaza)
