Singer, footballer, reporter among TOYM 2012 awardees

Apl.de.ap

Black Eyed Peas member Apl.de.ap, Azkals Vice Captain Chieffy Caligdong and GMA News senior reporter Jiggy Manicad are among the awardees of the annual The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of 2012.

The other awardees will be Congresswoman Emmeline Aglipay, heritage conservationist Ivan Henares, occupational therapist Abelardo David and veterinarian Waren Baticados.

The list was announced by Supreme Court Justice Arturo Brion, head judge of this year’s TOYM awards.

Every year, a panel of judges chooses among Filipinos who have showed exceptional dedication to their field to be given the TOYM award.

Chieffy Caligdong

“We look for people to be role models for the Filipino youth,” said TOYM executive director Larry Cruz.

For this year however, only seven were given the award due to the tight criteria set by the judges.

“This is the most prestigious Filipino youth award,” Cruz said, adding that the TOYM has been an award-giving body since 1959.

In an interview, Manicad offered the award to the Lord, his family and the victims of typhoon Pablo which devastated the Philippines recently, leaving 700 dead and more missing.

Jiggy Manicad

“It’s truly an honor and an inspiration to do better and do more at the same time,” he said.

Meanwhile, Henares said that he hoped that this recognition will mark the beginning of Filipino youth learning to embrace their cultural heritage.

“It’s the first time that Heritage Conservation is recognized by TOYM. I’m honored and thankful that TOYM recognized our work and advocacy to preserve our country’s built heritage,” he said.