Kasambahays were recognized not only for their years of service inside Filipino homes but also for their role as active participants in the country’s economy during the 10th Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards held this year.
The awards honored 20 outstanding kasambahays from the 2024 and 2025 cycles, each of whom received ₱100,000 in cash and access to a TESDA scholarship that may be used by the awardee or extended to a family member.
The Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards is a joint initiative of Palawan Group of Companies and JCI Senate Philippines. Organizers said the program highlights how kasambahays contribute to household stability while also sustaining economic activity through regular use of financial services.
With a 40-year presence in the financial services sector, Palawan Group said kasambahays have long been among its most consistent clients, frequently availing of pawning services, buying mobile load, and sending remittances to support their families in the provinces.
“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,” said Karlo M. Castro, president and chief executive officer of Palawan Group.
The awarding ceremony brought together kasambahays, their employers, and their families, underscoring how domestic work and financial responsibility are closely linked for many household workers who support dependents outside the homes they serve.
Mylene M. Dayrit, national executive vice president of JCI Senate Philippines, said kasambahays play a leadership role that often goes unrecognized.
“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,” Dayrit said.
For the first time, the awards also recognized overseas Filipino workers employed as household helpers abroad. Organizers said the inclusion reflects the same economic role played by kasambahays working locally, many of whom support families while living far from home.
Nominations for the awards were made more accessible through PalawanPay, allowing employers, family members, and friends to submit entries at any time.
Angelita M. Castro, deputy chairman and co-founder of Palawan Group, said the care provided by kasambahays reflects a distinct Filipino value.
“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 said.
She added that the company’s social responsibility efforts aim to translate recognition into opportunity.
“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,” Castro said.
