Rizal Hall, Malacañang
December 12, 2016

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte honored the exemplary leadership and innovation of 11 Filipinos during this year’s The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awarding ceremonies.

In his speech, President Duterte underscored the importance of their contributions in nation-building, saying this is a proof that everyone can be a hero by doing ordinary things extraordinarily.

“By committing to do our part in nation-building and by even simply doing the things that is expected of us everyday, we can immensely contribute to the cultivation, a far better and more secure future for ourselves, our families, and our commodities,” he said.

He called on to the awardees to continue inspiring other people. According to him, their skills and talents can engage people to make meaningful transformation the nation needs.

“Our nation is in a crucial period of introducing concrete and meaningful change. I need your support, now more than ever so that we can collectively overcome the illicit of illegal drugs, criminality, and corruption that has plagued our nation for so long,” President Duterte asked from them.

Eleven honorees completed this year’s list of outstanding young men and women across the Philippines. They are Atty. Carmela Andal-Castro (Law), Clarissa Isabelle Delgado (Community Service), Ryan Guinaran (Indigenous People Advocacy), Randy Halasan (Education), Richard Javad Heydarian (Social Science), Richard Muallil (Marine Science Conservation), Ronivin Pagtakhan (Youth Leadership), Geraldine Racaza (Medicine), Saturnino Tiamson Jr. (Arts in Music), Jhett Tolentino (Arts in Theatre), and Earl Martin Valencia (Entrepreneurship).

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