Tuesday, October 21, 2008 BPI honors world-class Pinoys
THE Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) presented the 2008 BPInoy Awards for world-class overseas Filipinos to British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) journalist Rico Hizon and New York-based fashion designer Josie Natori in ceremonies held recently at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.
The awards were presented by BPI director Fernando Zobel de Ayala, BPI president Aurelio R. Montinola III, BPI senior vice president Teresita B. Tan, and Labor Secretary Marianito Roque.
"BPI is privileged to share and celebrate the success achieved by Overseas Filipinos who have truly demonstrated inherent Pinoy values, the same values that catapulted them to world renown, bringing honor and recognition to our country," Montinola said.
Now on its third year, the BPInoy Awards is an annual initiative that aims to encourage nationalism among Filipinos abroad and to communicate BPI's commitment to excellence in the service of overseas Filipinos.
"Receiving the BPInoy Award is a particularly significant recognition for me because I feel that my life's work has been acknowledged and my passion, validated," said Hizon. "I am incredibly blessed that my work allows me to do what I love and I am very grateful to BPI for appreciating what I have accomplished."
"Josie strongly believes that to be Pinoy is to Be Sipag, to Be Tipid and to Be Mapagmahal," said Natori's mother Angelita Cruz who received the award on her behalf, "She is deeply committed to these values and the guidance they have offered and continue to offer in her life."
Hizon and Natori were selected as this year's BPInoy awardees for their excellence in their chosen careers and outstanding citizenship.
Hailed as one of 2006's Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) for International Journalism and Community Service, Hizon is the first Filipino broadcast journalist to work for global broadcasting networks BBC and CNBC Asia.
Former investment banker Natori celebrated her 30th year in 2007 as the CEO and founder of her million-dollar fashion empire based in New York.
Natori's name, which happens to be the Japanese word for "highest form of art", is now a luxury brand covering lingerie and other women's fashions, children's wear, and home furnishings. (PR)
