Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award opens nominations for 42nd year with P1-M cash grant

The search for the next recipient of the prestigious Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award (STCA) has officially begun.

During a media launch held at an events place in Makati City, CinemaBravo was in attendance as the call for nominations was made public. This year, the award offers a Php 1,000,000.00 cash grant, with at least half of the amount to be donated to a charitable institution of the recipient’s choice.

The Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award is a prestigious recognition dedicated to Saint Teresa of Calcutta, the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize laureate affectionately known as “The Living Saint” before she was canonized in 2016. Celebrated worldwide for her lifelong dedication to humanitarian work, Saint Teresa’s legacy continues to inspire through this annual award project of the AY Foundation, Inc. and JCI Manila, which began in 1983.

The STCA seeks to focus public attention and confer honor upon individuals who, like Saint Teresa, have devoted a significant portion of their lives in the service of the “poorest of the poor.” These individuals serve as living inspirations to the world through their compassion, selflessness, and enduring commitment.

This year’s theme, “Echoes of Compassion: Serving Beyond Borders,” reflects the growing need for global solidarity in serving humanity and acknowledges the boundless spirit of those who extend their help beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.

The winner for 2024, St. Minerva T. Caampued, FAS, a Franciscan nun, exemplified these ideals through her nearly three-decade-long commitment to serving the Indigenous Agta community in Cagayan province.

This year’s awardee will receive a cash grant of Php 1,000,000.00, with at least half of the prize to be allocated to a charitable institution of their choice.

Continuing a legacy of service

JCI Manila President Jan Adrian “AP” Padiernos emphasized the award’s enduring significance in his message during the launch.

“As we celebrate the 42nd year of the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award, we continue our journey of honoring those who embody the values of compassion, service, and selflessness,” he said.

Padiernos highlighted how the award has, for over four decades, recognized individuals whose unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable members of society mirrors the essence of Saint Teresa’s mission.

“Her legacy reminds us that true impact comes not just from grand gestures, but from the daily, intentional acts of kindness that uplift communities,” Padiernos added.

As the 42nd year of the award unfolds, JCI Manila remains committed to identifying individuals whose lives reflect Saint Teresa’s spirit, not just in words, but through meaningful action.

“May this celebration inspire us to be more intentional in our pursuit of service, recognizing that by working together, we can create lasting change and ensure that Saint Teresa’s legacy endures through generations to come,” he concluded.

How to nominate

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

Nomination Deadline: July 25, 2025

Send nominations to:

Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award Committee
Aquiza corner Grey Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
Tel: (632) 525-6792 | Fax: (632) 525-2631
Email submissions: information.stca@gmail.com
Visit facebook.com/STCA for more information.

About JCI Manila

For over 75 years, JCI Manila has been a driving force for positive change, leadership, and community impact. As the first JCI chapter in Asia, it has empowered generations of young men to become catalysts for progress, addressing the most pressing social challenges through innovative and sustainable programs.

With a strong network of over 10,000 members nationwide, JCI Manila has fostered leaders who have transformed industries, influenced policy, and championed corporate social responsibility.

JCI Manila’s legacy is built on pioneering projects that continue to uplift communities. The Voice of Democracy (1950) has empowered thousands of youth through public speaking and civic engagement. Operation Godparents (1959) provides long-term mentorship and education for underprivileged children. Project Helping Hand (1971) has mobilized disaster relief and humanitarian efforts, ensuring aid reaches those in need.

These initiatives, along with countless others, have shaped the landscape of nation-building and social innovation. As the most awarded JCI chapter globally, JCI Manila remains committed to developing purpose-driven leaders who create lasting impact. Through partnerships with businesses, government, and civil society, it continues to drive meaningful change, building a stronger, more compassionate, and empowered Philippines.