President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered all government agencies to assist in the call for nominations for the 2026 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO).
“All government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, are hereby directed, and all local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector are hereby encouraged, to extend full support to the CFO (Commission on Filipinos Overseas) in the conduct of the 2026 PAFIOO,” Marcos said in Memorandum Circular No. 112 signed on January 15.
The CFO will accept nominations until May 29, 2026, under four categories: Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Award, Banaag Award, Pamana ng Pilipino Award, and Kaanib ng Bayan Award. A multi-stage evaluation will precede the conferment of awards in December 2026.
Marcos emphasized that the success of the awards depends on broad participation and dissemination of information. He also tasked the Presidential Communications Office to implement measures encouraging the public to nominate qualified individuals.
The biennial Presidential Awards honor outstanding overseas Filipinos and foreign organizations for achievements, humanitarian work, and contributions to Philippine development.
Since its launch in 1991, 555 awardees from 55 countries have been recognized by seven Presidents.
The CFO, under Batas Pambansa Blg. 72, is mandated to undertake special programs promoting the welfare of Filipinos overseas and their ties to the Philippines.