A mother of an eight-year-old girl afflicted with cerebral palsy has been adjudged top winner in Muntinlupa City’s search for 2024 Gawad Ulirang Ina awardees.
Mrs. Maricar dela Cruz Sumaoang of Barangay Sucat was cited “Most Outstanding Mother” for having triumphed over daunting challenges and even manifested selflessness by putting up a team among her neighbors to help children with difficulties.
Apart from her trophy, Sumaoang also received a total of P60,000 from the event organizers led by the local government unit under Mayor Ruffy Biazon.
The awarding ceremony was held May 22 at the South Park Center in Alabang under the supervision of Mrs. Trina Reyes-Biazon, head of the Muntinlupa Gender and Development Focal Point System.
“Naniniwala ako na hindi mo kailangang maging mayaman para makatulong at maging mabuting tao sa ating kapwa at sa lipunan (I believe that you don’t have to be rich to help other people, and to be a good person for others and the society)” Sumaoang said.
The other awardees were Mrs. Petronila Villanueva (Brgy. Tunasan), Mrs. Lolita Almonte (Brgy. Poblacion), Mrs. Maria Clara Cuevas (Brgy. Putatan), Mrs. Zenaida Fabian (Brgy. Bayanan), Mrs. Norma Bagasino (Brgy. Alabang), Mrs. Susan Atendido (Brgy. Cupang), and Mrs. Leticia Serrano (Brgy. Buli).
Each finalist received P40,000 and a trophy, while Sumaoang received an additional P20,000 as the top winner.
Mayor Biazon underscored the importance of recognizing the women’s roles in society.
“Kinikilala natin ang kanilang tapang sa pagharap sa challenges ng buhay mula sa pagtaguyod sa pamilya hanggang sa kanilang kontribusyon sa kani-kanilang komunidad. I hope, magsilbi silang inspirasyon sa lahat ng Muntinlupeño para mas maipakita pa ang ating sipag, tiyaga, at pagmamahal (We recognize their courage and bravery in facing life’s challenges and in raising their families, as well as their contributions to the community. I hope they will serve as inspiration for all Muntinlupeños in showing their industry, perseverance, and love,” Biazon said.
According to Reggie Salonga, head of the Gender and Development office, the “Gawad Ulirang Ina” will serve as a way for the city government to pay tribute to the outstanding mothers.
He said some of the criteria for selection of the winners were the candidates’ visions and steadfastness in facing life’s trials and tribulations, and successfully raising their families despite financial difficulties, as well as helping the community in whatever way they can.