- NEWS
- the EDIT
- COMMENTARY
- BUSINESS
- LIFE
- SHOW
- ACTION
- GLOBAL GOALS
- SNAPS
- DYARYO TIRADA
- MORE
The Rotary Club of Makati held the awarding ceremony for the Paing Hechanova Youth Leadership Awards (PHYLA) last Friday, 30 January, recognizing outstanding young Filipino leaders whose initiatives are creating measurable impact in communities across the country.
Held at the Main Ballroom of the Manila Polo Club in Makati, the event brought together Rotary leaders, members of the media, and the 10 national finalists competing for the P500,000 grand prize, which supports the continuation and expansion of youth-led community projects.
Flagship youth leadership program
Launched in 2024, PHYLA is the Rotary Club of Makati’s flagship youth leadership program, honoring young leaders who demonstrate innovation, integrity, and a deep commitment to service. The program is held in honor of the late Rafael “Paing” Hechanova, a former Rotary International director and member of the Rotary Club of Makati known for his contributions to public service and sports development.
The awards followed an eight-month, two-tiered judging process. At the district level, nominees were evaluated by panels composed of Rotary district coordinators, district chairs, and representatives from the Council of Governors.
District winners advanced to the national stage, where the Top 10 finalists participated in a leadership boot camp designed to further hone their skills, strengthen their advocacies, and expand their impact through mentorship and collaboration.
At the district level, winners received ₱P50,000 for first place,P30,000 for second place, and P20,000 for third place. At the national level, the Grand Winner received P500,000, the First Runner-Up P250,000, and the Second Runner-Up ₱P150,000. Nominating Rotary Clubs of national finalists were also awarded ₱P50,000 each to help sustain youth-led initiatives.
Top 3 winners announced
The evening culminated in the announcement of the Top 3 winners, led by Shawntel Nicole M. Nieto of Rotary District 3800, who was named PHYLA 2025 Grand Winner. Nieto is the co-founder of Sustainability PH, a non-profit organization that equips Filipino professionals, advocates, and young practitioners to lead and implement sustainable development initiatives nationwide. She was nominated by the Rotary Club of Wack Wack.
First Runner-Up honors went to Coleen Awit of Rotary District 3850 from Bacolod City, founder of Sagup Negros, a social enterprise focused on building inclusive and self-sustaining community ecosystems. Second Runner-Up was Herna Francis Mae B. Tano of Rotary District 3870 from Opol, Misamis Oriental, co-founder of Talentrail 2.0, which provides education and employment pathways for underserved youth.
Special Award
A Special Award was also presented to Anora P. Madrid of Rotary District 3810 from Tondo, Manila, for her work advocating urban poor rights, sustainable livelihoods, and community resilience.
Serving on the national panel of judges was Daily Tribune President and Publisher Wilfredo B. Fernandez, who received recognition for his role as national judge and for
Daily Tribune’s participation as media partner. Tribune columnist Bing Matoto was also recognized for serving as chairman of the organizing committee. Matoto previously served as Rotary Club president during PHYLA’s inaugural year.
The ceremony also introduced the Sports Personality Awards, in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission, recognizing young athletes who exemplify discipline, performance, character, and leadership. The inaugural recipients were tennis player Alex Eala and Olympic medalist swimmer Kayla Sanchez, who each received P100,000 to support their training and development.
