Pangasinan: The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines, a global non-profit organization, is encouraging Pangasinenses to nominate outstanding individuals who have contributed significantly to their communities or the country for The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) and The Outstanding Young Men (and Women) of the Philippines (TOYM).

According to Philippines News Agency, JCI Senate Philippines national president Dr. Cecilia La Madrid Dy emphasized that the TOFIL Awards, established in 1988, aim to honor Filipino men and women aged 41 and above who have committed their lives to excellence and public service. The awards seek to highlight the stories of Filipinos whose work, integrity, and service go beyond recognition.

Dr. Dy remarked during a press briefing that, in today's fast-paced world where influence is often gauged by likes and views, genuine role models are more necessary than ever. The TOFIL Awards remain relevant by acknowledging individuals whose lives exemplify struggle, perseverance, discipline, and service, thus providing society with true heroes.

The TOFIL Award is open to Filipinos who are natural-born, naturalized, or hold dual citizenship, who are at least 41 years old, possess good moral character, and have made significant contributions to their profession, public welfare, or national development. National chairperson Rey Felix Rafols stated that honorees will be selected based on their character, integrity, and the impact of their achievements.

In contrast, the TOYM is a national award for Filipinos aged 18 to 40 who have made notable contributions to their field or community. The award is co-sponsored by the TOYM Foundation and the Gerry Roxas Foundation, with honorees nominated under specific categories.

Nominees for the TOYM must have worked in their field for a substantial part of their lives, with documented proof to be verified by the TOYM Secretariat. They must not be past TOYM honorees or current national officers or paid staff of JCI Philippines and the TOYM Foundation.

Historically, past TOYM nominees from Pangasinan have included police officers and members of academia and non-government organizations. Nominations and access to forms are available on the TOFIL and TOYM awards websites.