VIA GRAPHIC PLUS | MANILA, Philippines — JCI Manila, in partnership with the AY Foundation, has officially launched the 43rd St. Teresa of Calcutta Awards (STCA) on March 26, 2026 at Hexagon Lounge, marking the start of a nationwide search for Filipinos dedicated to changing lives and serving the poorest communities.
The STCA is one of the country’s most established humanitarian recognitions, honoring individuals whose work reflects compassion in action. Inspired by the legacy of Mother Teresa, the award recognizes those who serve not for recognition, but out of a genuine commitment to uplift others.
A Strengthened Partnership for Service
A key highlight of this year’s launch is the renewed partnership between JCI Manila and the AY Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Yuchengco Group of Companies. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement, reinforcing a shared commitment to recognize and support grassroots changemakers.
One of our pillars is Lead Beyond the Next Generation. The beauty of STCA is that the awardee is not a popular person but someone who truly does humanitarian work at the grassroots level, most often in rural, far-flung areas. And that is the essence of Beyond the Next Generation — doing the work to uplift the lives of ordinary next-generation Filipinos.
–Edison Ke, JCI Manila President
Who Can Be Nominated
The search is open to individuals whose work embodies selfless service. Nominees may include:
- Educators serving underserved or remote communities
- Healthcare workers supporting vulnerable populations
- Individuals dedicating their lives to humanitarian causes
The STCA seeks individuals whose actions demonstrate consistent and meaningful service, often without public recognition.
Continuing a Legacy of Compassion
Now in its 43rd year, the STCA continues to affirm that acts of compassion remain a powerful force for nation-building. By recognizing these individuals, JCI Manila and the AY Foundation aim to inspire more Filipinos, especially the youth, to take part in creating lasting social impact.
Call for Nominations
JCI Manila invites the public to participate in this nationwide search for modern-day heroes.
Selection Criteria
The Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award honors individuals who have:
- Dedicated at least 25 years to serving the less fortunate in the Philippines
- Served humbly and selflessly without seeking recognition
- Lived with integrity and simplicity, following the example of Saint Teresa of Calcutta
- Self-nominations are not allowed
Submission Details
Nomination Deadline: July 24, 2026
Submit nominations via:
📍 Mail or deliver to:
Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award Committee
Aquiza corner Grey Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
📞 Tel: (632) 525-6792
📠 Fax: (632) 525-2631
📧 Email: official.43rd.stca@gmail.com
🔗 More information:
https://web.facebook.com/STCAward
https://linktr.ee/official.43rd.stca
