The Valenzuela local government has opened this year’s search for Gawad Marciana de Castro - Valenzuela, a recognition of outstanding women living in this city.

Named after the spouse of local patriot Pio Valenzuela, the Gawad Marciana was created in 2014 through the City Ordinance No. 135 to honor women who have significant contributions in their respective fields. Previous awardees include novelist Rosario de Guzman - Lingat (posthumous), arts and culture educator Victoria Altoveros, and former councilor and first female barangay chair in Valenzuela Elizabeth Chongco. The awarding ceremonies have been held along with the celebration of Women’s Month in March.

Nominees should have shown exemplary performance in the arts, public service, community development, among other fields.  The final three awardees are selected by the search committee headed by the city mayor and comprised of representatives from the city government, academe and private sector. Each awardee receives a trophy and a cash prize of Php10, 000.

Nomination forms are available at the Office of Councilor Jennifer Pingree - Esplana at the 2nd Floor, Legislative Building, City Government Complex, Karuhatan, Valenzuela City. Copy of the form may also be downloaded at this link. The search committee is accepting nominations until February 22.

For questions, you may call the search committee at 352-1000 local 1548 and 294-0227. You may also send an email to gawadmarciana@gmail.com.

A dancer portrays Marciana de Castro-Valenzuela, wife of local anti-colonial revolutionary Dr. Pio Valenzuela, in a number during last year's Gawad Marciana awarding ceremonies, at the Valenzuela City Amphitheater, March 31, 2015. PHOTO BY RODRIGO DE GUZMAN.