The KK Awards marked a decade of celebrating kasambahays whose everyday efforts strengthen the foundation of Filipino families.
For a decade now, the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards has stood as a rare and meaningful tribute to one of the most vital yet often overlooked pillars of Filipino households—the kasambahay. Marking its 10th year, the program, jointly led by the Palawan Group of Companies and JCI Senate Philippines, once again shone a spotlight on the dedication, loyalty, and compassion of household workers whose daily efforts help keep families and communities strong.
This year’s ceremony brought together kasambahays, their employers, and loved ones in an intimate celebration of service and shared humanity. A total of 20 outstanding kasambahays from the 2024 and 2025 award cycles were honored for their years of unwavering commitment. Each awardee received ₱100,000 in cash along with access to a TESDA scholarship, which may be used personally or extended to family members—opening doors to skills training, livelihood opportunities, and long-term growth.
Palawan Group President and CEO Karlo M. Castro said the initiative reflects deeply rooted Filipino values. Kasambahays, he noted, are the quiet heroes of Filipino homes, providing stability, safety, and peace of mind to families every day. Through the awards, he said, the company hopes to affirm that their service is seen, valued, and genuinely appreciated.
The 2024 honorees are Beth Papa, Randy Ballena Tapel, Ellen Rose Mabanta, Lyrie Jean Embang, Rowena Duque Brimon, Luzviminda Camitan, Baby Marecres Brazal, Lourdes Varquez, Mari Rose Batacao, and Wencesa Flores.
With a 40-year legacy, the Palawan Group has grown into the country’s most trusted pawnshop and money remittance company. Kasambahays have long been among its most loyal customers, regularly availing of pawning services, buying mobile load, and sending remittances to support their families. This trust has often extended beyond the individual to entire households, making kasambahays an integral part of the Palawan Group community.
The company’s commitment goes beyond financial services. It remains one of the very few institutions in the country that has consistently honored kasambahays through a long-running, dedicated recognition program. This advocacy has been reinforced by PalawanPay, now among the fastest-growing e-wallet apps in the Philippines, offering accessible and secure financial tools designed for everyday needs.
JCI Senate Philippines National Executive Vice President Mylene M. Dayrit described kasambahays as everyday leaders whose work strengthens families and communities alike. While their efforts may often go unnoticed, she said, they form the very foundation of homes and society, exemplifying loyalty, care, and responsibility.
For the first time, the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards also recognized overseas Filipino workers serving as household helpers abroad. These OFWs were honored for the same resilience and dedication shown by their counterparts at home, often working far from their own families to provide a better future. Nominations were made more accessible through PalawanPay, allowing employers, relatives, and friends to submit entries anytime and anywhere.
Palawan Group Deputy Chairman and co-founder Angelita M. Castro underscored the uniquely Filipino spirit behind the awards, noting how the care given by kasambahays often mirrors the love reserved for one’s own family. She added that the company’s corporate social responsibility philosophy is grounded in uplifting communities by uplifting individuals, and that kasambahays—who help build stronger families and more resilient communities—deserve both recognition and opportunities to grow.
Through sustained recognition and tangible support, JCI Senate Philippines and the Palawan Group continue to elevate the dignity of kasambahays, fostering a culture of gratitude that strengthens families, empowers individuals, and creates lasting impact across communities nationwide.
For updates and more information, the public may visit the official Facebook pages of JCI Kasambahay Kasambuhay Awards and PalawanPay.