Team DailyPedia
Now in its 10th year, the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards (KK Awards) honored the dedication of Filipino household workers who help keep homes and families strong. A joint initiative of the Palawan Group of Companies and JCI Senate Philippines, the program reflects a shared commitment to uplifting everyday Filipinos and recognizing the vital role kasambahays play in building stronger communities. This year’s ceremony brought together kasambahays, their employers, and their families in a heartfelt celebration of service and commitment.
The KK Awards recognized a total of 20 outstanding kasambahays from the 2024 and 2025 award cycles for their years of dedicated service. Each awardee received ₱100,000 in cash and access to a TESDA scholarship, which they may use personally or extend to their loved ones, opening opportunities for upskilling, livelihood, and continued growth. Their years of service reflect deep care, dedication, and love for the families who have become their second homes.
The 2024 honorees are Beth Papa, Randy Ballena Tapel, Ellen Rose Mabanta, Lyrie Jean Embang, Rowena Duque Brimon, Luzviminda Camitan, Baby Marecres Brazal, Lourdes Varquez, Mari Rose Batacao, and Wencesa Flores.
The 2025 awardees include Adelaida Caquilagan Cabagua, Maria R. Rubia, Rosalinda Resco, Ma. Victoria F. Enero, Arceli Buling, Kent Lemuel Holoyohoy Pahimutang, Jean Gapol Macarayo, Judith Caras, Ma. Lyn Alipo-on, and Crystal Gale Pallugna.
Karlo M. Castro, President and CEO of Palawan Group, remarked that the program reflects deeply held Filipino values: “Kasambahays are the quiet heroes of Filipino homes. Their work brings stability, safety, and peace of mind to families every day. Through this initiative, we want them to know they are seen, valued, and truly appreciated.”
With a legacy spanning 40 years, the Palawan Group is today the country’s leading and most trusted pawnshop and money remittance company. Kasambahays have long been an important and valued customer segment, regularly availing of pawning services, buying load, and sending remittances to support their families. They are among Palawan Group’s most loyal sukis, whose trust often extends to their loved ones as well.
Beyond providing essential financial services, the Palawan Group stands among the very few companies that has consistently recognized and honored kasambahays through a dedicated, long-running program. This commitment has been further strengthened through PalawanPay, now one of the fastest-growing e-wallet apps in the Philippines, which offers accessible tools that make managing finances easier, safer, and more convenient for everyday needs.
Mylene M. Dayrit, National Executive Vice President of JCI Senate Philippines, shared, “Through the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards, we honor kasambahays as everyday leaders whose tireless commitment uplifts families, strengthens communities, and sets an example of loyalty, care, and responsibility. Their work may often go unseen, but it shapes the foundation of our homes and society.”
For the first time, the KK Awards also recognized Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) serving as household helpers. They were honored for the same resilience and dedication shown by local kasambahays, often working far from home to support their families. Nominations were made more accessible through PalawanPay, allowing employers, families, and friends to submit entries anytime, anywhere.
Deputy Chairman and co-founder Angelita M. Castro further emphasized “Iba ang aruga ng Pinoy, makikita ito sa kung paano inaalagaan ng mga kasambahay ang pamilyang kanilang pinaglilingkuran, na para na rin nilang sariling pamilya.”
She further shared, “At Palawan Group, our corporate social responsibility philosophy is simple: we uplift communities by uplifting individuals. We truly believe that kasambahays, who help build stronger families and more resilient communities, deserve to be honored and given this kind of opportunity to be honored and given a chance to upskill.”
Through continued recognition, JCI Senate Philippines and the Palawan Group celebrate kasambahays, uplifting families and communities nationwide.
Through sustained recognition and meaningful support, JCI Senate Philippines and the Palawan Group continue to honor the service of kasambahays, strengthening families, empowering individuals, and fostering a culture of gratitude that transforms lives and communities across the Philippines.
For more information and updates, visit the official Facebook pages of JCI Kasambahay Kasambuhay Awards and PalawanPay.
