Long-Time Philanthropist, Young Entrepreneurs Recognized in 2024 RVR Awards
Six individuals were honored at the prestigious Ramon V. del Rosario (RVR) Awards for their exceptional contributions to corporate citizenship and nation-building. The ceremony, held on Tuesday, 20 August 2024 at The Fifth at Rockwell, celebrated trailblazers from various industries who have demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact on society.
The RVR Awards, organized by PHINMA, Junior Chamber International (JCI) Manila, De La Salle University RVR College of Business, and the Asian Institute of Management RVR Center for Corporate Responsibility, recognize individuals who have exemplified outstanding entrepreneurial spirit, national or global impact, corporate citizenship, and social responsibility.
Ramon V. del Rosario Nation Building Award 2024
The Nation Building Award was bestowed upon Ambassador Howard Q. Dee, a renowned philanthropist and businessman. Dee’s dedication to social development and peace has been instrumental in numerous initiatives, including his involvement in the peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and his co-founding of ASA Philippines and Assisi Development Foundation. His lifelong commitment to eradicating poverty and pursuing social justice has impacted countless lives both locally and internationally.
Ramon V. del Rosario Siklab Award 2024
The Siklab Award, which recognizes promising entrepreneurs, was presented to the following individuals:
- Ariestelo A. Asilo: Co-founder and CEO of Varacco Inc. and Chief Thinnker Officer and President of ThinnkFarm. Asilo’s leadership has empowered coffee farmers in Cavite and Mindanao, providing them with sustainable livelihoods.
- Victor Mari C. Baguilat, Jr.: Founder, CEO, and Creative Director of Kandama Social Enterprise. Baguilat’s initiative has empowered Indigenous Ifugao women weavers by connecting their traditional hand-loomed fabrics to the global market, preserving their cultural heritage, and providing sustainable income.
- Rafael Ignacio S. Dionisio: Co-founder and President of Make A Difference (MAD) Travel. Dionisio’s company partners with the Aeta community to build forests and support local farmers and entrepreneurs, creating sustainable livelihoods and promoting environmental conservation.
- Ann Adeline G. Dumaliang: Co-founder and Managing Trustee of Masungi Georeserve. Dumaliang’s innovative approach to conservation, eco-tourism, education, and community engagement has helped protect the watershed and biodiversity of the Masungi Georeserve.
- Alvin C. Ong: Founder and CEO of Fredley Group of Companies. Ong’s successful F&B business has not only created jobs but has also adopted inclusive hiring practices for differently-abled individuals, demonstrating his commitment to social responsibility.
Business as a Force for Good
PHINMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ramon R. del Rosario, Jr. emphasized the importance of the RVR Awards in inspiring young people and highlighting the potential of business to drive positive change. He urged the awardees to share their stories to inspire the next generation and foster a sense of hope and optimism.
The PHINMA-DLSU Center for Business and Society, recently launched, aims to champion business as a force for good by promoting sustainable and socially responsible practices. The awardees’ stories can serve as valuable case studies for students and aspiring entrepreneurs.
The 2024 RVR Awards once again showcased the power of individuals to make a significant impact on their communities and the nation. By recognizing and celebrating these outstanding individuals, the awards continue to inspire and motivate others to pursue their own journeys of entrepreneurship and social responsibility.