The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) Inc. and the Philippine College of Cardiology (PCC) on Wednesday recognized Manila Standard with two accolades during the PHA Media Awards 2025 held in Pasig.
Manila Standard received a plaque of appreciation in the Media Entity Category for its responsible reporting and strong support for the association’s major health advocacies.
The PHA cited the newsroom for its responsible health journalism and support for key initiatives, including “Usapang Puso sa Puso,” “PHA Puso Muna,” CPR readiness, and the “One Cardiologist for Every City” advocacy.
The group also honored Manila Standard reporter Rio N. Araja with the “Best News Story” award for her report, “Heart Doctors Urge PhilHealth to Expand STEMI Package,” published on September 1.
The award credited the journalist’s outstanding coverage for presenting critical cardiovascular conditions and issues with clarity and accuracy, reflecting her personal and professional commitment to act in the public interest.
On behalf of the Manila Standard, Araja thanked the doctors of the PCC and PHA, as well as the PHA’s communications and media relations officer Gynna P. Gagelonia, for their patience in accommodating media questions and concerns on heart-related issues affecting millions of Filipinos.
This year, the PHA focused on raising awareness about recognizing the symptoms of heart conditions and responding effectively to cardiac arrest.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Manila Standard, reporter score 2 wins at PHA Media Awards 2025”
