A much-desired prestigious international distinction among the youth established in 1956 by Prince Philip of Great Britain now under the wings of his son, Prince Edward, has finally reached the Philippines.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is open to youths 15 to 18. The recognition may be achieved upon the completion of a series of self-development exercises with a focus to serve the community. The levels range from bronze and silver, to gold, with each category possessing its own stringent set of requirements. The highest tier may be accomplished at your own pace, but before the aspirant turns 25 years old.
It was initially administered by John Hunt, leader of the first successful Mount Everest climb in 1953 that led to the conquest of Sir Edmund Hillary and Nepalese mountaineer Tenzing Norgay of the fabled summit.
The citation is now administered by national organizations and independent operators accredited by the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards Foundation, a global network of support systems.
Since its inception, over 2.5 million recognitions have been granted in the UK alone, while yearly, approximately 600,000 individuals start on their quest. Today, it is handed out in 144 countries worldwide, and is now in the Philippines.
The first-ever Filipina Gold Awardee is Marian Patricia Bea Francisco, a young veteran of social work.
At present, three others have been bestowed Gold in the Philippines – Maria Elena Lozada, Raniel de los Reyes, and Emmanuel Jabrica.
Francisco, leadership program coordinator at School of Deaf and Applied Studies (SDEAS), De La Salle College of Saint Benilde (DSL-CSB), is the officer-in-charge of the merit locally.
As an example, Francisco and other volunteers went to far-flung areas to conduct lectures and seminars on topics such as sign language and deaf awareness, while they advocate deaf identity and culture in provinces.
Francisco noted that aspiring participants have become more driven with their scholastic performance and interpersonal relationships.
She further shares the benefits she reaped. “I had opportunities to travel and meet fellows with similar goals,” she smiles.
She is optimistic that the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award may be introduced into centers of learning as an extra-curricular activity.
“It will hopefully instill the same self-growth and sense of leadership that these students have developed from this effort.” she ends.
