Mother’s Day is a special occasion that allows us to express our love and gratitude to the remarkable women who have shaped our lives. It is a day to celebrate the selfless love, unwavering dedication, and countless sacrifices of mothers around the world. In line with this celebration, the 5th Gawad Ulirang Ina Awards took place, honoring and recognizing extraordinary mothers who have made a profound impact on their families and communities.
This prestigious event is organized by Junior Chamber International (JCI) Puerto Princesa Oil in partnership with NCCC Mall Palawan, Palawan Daily News, Pest Science Corporation, Tatak ni Tatang, Petrosphere Incorporated, Blooms by Mamu Jong, Radyo Pilipinas Palawan, Office of City Councilor Karl Aquino – Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President, and Puerto Princesa City Police Office, dedicated to celebrating the exceptional qualities and contributions of mothers. This year’s award ceremony was a testament to the power of motherhood and the remarkable strength these women possess held at NCCC Mall Palawan Activity Center, 2 in the afternoon, May 12, 2024.
The event showcased heartfelt speeches, inspiring stories and a genuine appreciation for the selfless love and sacrifices of mothers. Each awardee exemplified the essence of Gawad Ulirang Ina, embodying qualities such as resilience, compassion and unwavering dedication.
The awardees who were selected from a pool of exceptional nominees, represented a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. Each awardee had a unique story of strength and perseverance.
Pamela P. Ponce De Leon – Garcia from 2002 to 2010 was the Chief of Staff of the Office of the Vice Governor of Palawan and concurrently held the position of Executive Director of the Palawan Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) in 2005 which she initiated innovative programs such as: Palawan Youth Congress on Drug Abuse Prevention, Establishment of Community Drop in Centers in Aborlan, Brooke’s Point, Bataraza, Balabac, Narra, etc, Bantay Barangay, and numerous trainings and seminars for youth leaders, students, community workers, government employees on the importance of healthy lifestyle.
LCDR Silvany Delight Q. Gastanes has been the acting commander of the Naval Forces Reserve West for several years, now she is still serve as the Chief of Staff to the currently Acting Commander Capt. Aldrin Cuῇa. As a reservist and a leader, she cares for her constituents as a partner and as a mother. She takes care of fellow Palaweῇo reservists in each and every activity whether she is involved or not. She puts first the well-being of her constituents before herself. She is the mother of the Naval Forces Reserve West personnel.
Professor Elizabeth P. Gironella was recognized and was honored by the International Institute for Species Exploration at Arizona State University in 2010 for her discovery and description of the new species, Nepenthes attenboroughii. For her achievement, she received the 2010 Top Ten New Species Award. As a scientist, she was part of the team who discovered an endemic species of begonia in Tanabag, Puerto Princesa City. This specie was named after her begonia gironellae, in honor of her discovery. She served as head curator of Palawan Herbarium which has archived more than 3,500 species since 1997. She taught in the academe teaching Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science for about 49 years at Palawan State University.
Technical Sergeant Greta B. Orendain was recognized as 2017 Airwoman of the Year, 2017 PAF Shortlisted Finalist-PAF AM of the Year, 2018 Contender PAF NCO of the Year, Contender of AFP-DND GPS 2018, Top 2- Strategic CMO NCO Course 15-16, Top 4- BNCOC (2nd Honorable Mention for Academic Excellence, Best Writer, Outstanding Seminar Member Contributor Award). Sergeant Orendain Unit: Tactical Operations Wing West, Office of the Directorate for Civil Military Operations and she is a Member of BMT Class 2008- Mandirigmang Lilinang sa Yabong ng Bayan (MALIYAB).
The 5th Gawad Ulirang Ina Awards beautifully captured the essence of Mother’s Day, reminding us of the immeasurable value of mothers in our society. It highlighted their strength, resilience, and selflessness, inspiring us to cherish and celebrate the incredible journey of motherhood.