The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) and the Philippine College of Cardiology (PCC) recognized 19 journalists, including Manila Standard correspondent Rio Araja, for their outstanding contributions to promoting a heart-healthy lifestyle.
The PHA Media Awards, held on November 13 at EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City, celebrated 19 media personalities and 11 organizations for their outstanding work in advocating cardiovascular health.
Other awardees included Ed Usmann of Science Digital News, Michael Delizo of ABS-CBN, Claudeth Mocon of Business Mirror, Diane Querrer of PTV-4, and veteran broadcast journalist Connie Sison of GMA-7’s ‘Pinoy MD.’
Anabelle Surara of Radyo Agila and Marou Sarne of dwIZ received the Hall of Fame Award.
The event also gave special recognition to workers behind the scenes in media production, recognizing their critical role in delivering accurate and meaningful health messages to the public.
During the ceremony, PHA President Dr. Rodney Enriquez unveiled the organization’s strategy map for 2024-2028, aiming to reduce heart disease prevalence in the Philippines. Enriquez highlighted the need to address ischemic heart disease, currently the country’s leading cause of death.
The awards night also featured the launch of new initiatives, including the PHA social media platform, the PHA Puso Muna advocacy, and Karjo Mahusay, the new PHA mascot symbolizing cardiovascular health for Filipinos.
The Manila Standard thanked the PCC, PHA, and the nation’s heart specialists for recognizing media’s pivotal role in advancing public health awareness.
