DA-WV SPO Chief emerges as finalist for 2023 Philippine Resilience Award for Women

Department of Agriculture (DA) Western Visayas Special Project Office Chief and candidate for the prestigious Philippine Resilience Award for Women 2023, Carmelita C. Fantilanan secured a place as one of the top 20 national finalists.

The Philippine Resilience Award (PRA) for Women 2023 highlights the indomitable spirit of women who have overcome adversity and demonstrated outstanding resilience in the face of various challenges. Among the numerous inspiring candidates, Fantilannan, one exceptional woman has emerged as a beacon of hope and determination.

Fantilanan, a true embodiment of resilience, has been selected as one of the distinguished Top 20 finalists in this year’s awards. Her journey to this point is trifle of extraordinary, characterized by her unwavering strength, perseverance, and dedication to empowering not only herself but also her community.

Hailing from Cuartero, Capiz, she faced a series of formidable trials that would have discouraged many. Through personal adversity, societal pressures, and economic hardships, she remained resolute in her commitment to create a brighter future for herself and those around her. Her unwavering spirit and determination have served as an inspiration to many, making her an ideal candidate for the Philippine Resilience Award for Women.

Upon learning of her selection as a Top 20 finalist, Fantilanan expressed her gratitude and dedication to continue her mission of inspiring and empowering women across the nation. “I am deeply honored to be recognized as one of the Top 20 finalists for the Philippine Resilience Award for Women 2023. This acknowledgment is a testament to the strength of women and the power of resilience. I hope my journey can serve as a source of motivation for all those who face challenges in their lives”, she said.

The Philippine Resilience Award for Women 2023 has garnered significant attention for acknowledging women like Carmelita C. Fantilanan who have triumphed over adversity and showcased incredible resilience.

The judging panel, composed of distinguished experts in the field are Dr. Maria Teresita Pastor-Medado, President, Asia Pacific College, Atty. Rachel Anne Herrera, Commissioner, Climate Change Commission, Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Member, ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies-Global Board, Austere A. Panadero, Vice Chair for Civil Society National Resilience Council, Macario “Mac” Jusayan, Ded, Chief GAD Specialist, Philippine Commission on Women, Dr. Patricia Ann Jaranilla-Sanchez, Chair, Interdisciplinary Studies Center for Water, Dr. Eduardo Mangoang, Co-Chair and Member, Climate Change Commission National Panel of Technical Experts, VAdm. Alexander P. Pama, Member, ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilience Societies, Atty. Violeta Somera Seva, General Secretary, Earthquake and Megacities Initiative, Dr. Emma E. Porio, Science Resilience Fellow, National Resilience Council, and Thelma T. Vecina, CESO IV, Executive Director, DILG. ###Texts by Maria Corazon M. Buala/DA-RAFIS 6