TOWER Awards 2026 Messages

Message from the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment

Warmest congratulations to the 31st batch of awardees of this year's The Outstanding Workers of the Republic (TOWER) Awards.

Initiated in 1976 through a partnership between the then Ministry of Labor and the Rotary Club of Manila, the TOWER Awards continues to uphold the dignity of labor. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is one with the Rotary Club of Manila in honoring exemplary workers in the manufacturing and service sectors who embody 'service above self through innovations that have significantly enhanced their company's efficiency, productivity, and overall performance. Reflecting a holistic approach, the TOWER Awards recognize not only professional achievements but also the integrity, discipline, and character of the awardees.

As the backbones of national economic development, it is only fitting to highlight the significant contributions of workers in the manufacturing and services sectors, especially that we have just commemorated the 124th Labor Day under the theme, "Disenteng Trabaho para sa Lahat: Isang Hangarin, Bagong Pilipinas Sama-samang Mararating." The latest Labor Force Survey continues to show strong employment figures, where over 30 million Filipinos are employed in the services sector, while over three million are employed in the manufacturing sub-sector.

Beyond tangible organizational benefits, the recognition also boosts employee morale and motivation, while fostering a culture of teamwork, responsibility, and commitment to the company's broader goals. The Department shall continue to support programs that promote a culture of excellence and cultivate a more engaged workforce through management support for innovations and improvements introduced by the organization's human resources.

May the stories of this year's awardees inspire others to uphold the same dedication, integrity, and spirit of service in their workplaces and communities.

Muli, mainit na pagbati sa mga katangi-tanging manggagawa! Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas!

Message from the District Governor of RI District 3810

Warmest congratulations to the Rotary Club of Manila for its inspiring initiative in honoring the Outstanding Workers of the Republic. This meaningful recognition affirms that the true strength of every organization lies in its people who embody excellence, integrity, and unwavering dedication to their craft.

To the distinguished awardees, you represent the highest standards of professionalism and commitment. Your loyalty, discipline, and adherence to your company’s core values have not only strengthened your respective organizations but have also contributed significantly to economic growth and nation-building.

To our partner companies, your continued support in nurturing, recognizing, and valuing your workforce creates an environment where excellence thrives and sustainability is achieved.

Indeed, progress is a shared journey where the success of workers fuels the growth of companies, and the growth of companies uplifts our communities and our nation. May this recognition continue to inspire a culture of excellence, dignity in labor, and pride in every Filipino worker. When we honor the worker, we strengthen the foundation of our nation.

Congratulations to all.

Yours in Rotary Service,

Mary Mei V. Rodrigo, District Governor 2025–2026, Rotary International District 3810

Message from the President of the Rotary Club of Manila

The TOWER (The Outstanding Workers of the Republic) Awards has long stood as one of our most meaningful traditions — a tribute to the quiet heroes whose dedication, integrity, and excellence strengthen the very foundations of our nation. Today, we honor men and women who remind us that true greatness is often found not in position or title, but in character and service.

This year’s awardees embody the values we hold dear: hard work without fanfare, commitment without condition, and service without expectation of recognition. Their stories inspire us to look beyond ourselves and to reaffirm Rotary’s timeless call to “Service Above Self.”

To our honorees — thank you for showing our country what excellence looks like in its purest form. Your work uplifts communities, strengthens institutions, and inspires generations. You are living proof that the Filipino worker is, and always will be, the nation’s greatest asset.

To my fellow Rotarians, sponsors, partners, and the dedicated TOWER Awards Committee — thank you for your unwavering support. Your collective effort ensures that this tradition continues to flourish and that those who labor with integrity receive the honor they so richly deserve. May today’s celebration remind us of our shared responsibility to recognize, elevate, and empower the workers who move our nation forward.

Mabuhay ang manggagawang Pilipino. Mabuhay ang Rotary.

Raoul C. Creencia, President, Rotary Club of Manila

Message from the Chairman of TOWER Awards 2026

Greetings! It is with immense pride and profound respect that I extend my warmest regards to the distinguished guests, corporate sponsors, members of the Rotary Club of Manila, officers of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, friends, and most importantly, to the honorees of this year’s TOWER Award.

As a proud legacy project of the Rotary Club of Manila (RCM), the TOWER Award has long stood as a beacon of excellence. It serves a noble and vital purpose: to seek out, recognize, and celebrate The Outstanding Workers of the Republic of the Philippines. This noble endeavor is profoundly strengthened by the invaluable partnership between the Rotary Club of Manila and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). As the esteemed agency that supervises all economic zones across the country, PEZA is the driving force that provides livelihood and opportunities to thousands of Filipino workers. Through this powerful synergy, between RCM and PEZA, we are able to reach deep into the heart of the nation’s industries to discover and uplift the brightest minds within our manufacturing sector.

Today, we honor these unsung heroes. The individuals recognized in today’s ceremonies are not just employees but are visionaries on the factory floor. Through their remarkable ingenuity, creativity, and relentless pursuit of innovation, they have revolutionized the manufacturing process, resulting in improved efficiency but also generated additional income and growth for their companies and their communities.

TO THIS YEAR’S AWARDEES: CONGRATULATIONS! MABUHAY ANG MANGGGAGAWANG PILIPINO! MABUHAY ANG PEZA AT ANG ROTARY CLUB OF MANILA! MARAMING SALAMAT.

Jesus M. Pineda, Jr., Centennial President, Chairman, TOWER Awards 2026

Message from the Chairman & CEO of PAGCOR

On behalf of the men and women of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), I extend our warmest congratulations to the Rotary Club of Manila for the successful staging of the 2026 Outstanding Workers of the Republic (TOWER) Awards.

For decades, the TOWER Awards has stood as a most meaningful tribute to the Filipino worker by recognizing individuals whose dedication, integrity, innovation, and perseverance quietly but powerfully contribute to national progress. Through this noble initiative, the Rotary Club of Manila continues to affirm the important truth that the strength of our nation rests not only on leaders and institutions but also on the hardworking men and women whose daily efforts sustain our industries, communities, and national economy.

At PAGCOR, we believe in the dignity of labor and in the value of every worker, regardless of rank or position. Whether in the public or private sector, every employee plays a vital role in nation-building. From those on the front-lines of operations to those working behind the scenes, each contribution matters and deserves recognition. This is why we are honored to support initiatives such as the TOWER Awards, which fosters a culture of professionalism, commitment, and service among Filipino workers.

To this year's awardees, may this recognition inspire you to continue making a meaningful impact not only within your organizations, but also in the lives of the people and communities you serve. To the Rotary Club of Manila, thank you for sustaining this inspiring platform. May you continue uplifting our workforce and reinforcing the vital role of labor in building a stronger and more progressive Philippines.

Message from the Director General of PEZA

We at the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) extend our warmest congratulations to the awardees of this year's TOWER (The Outstanding Workers of the Republic) Awards. We also commend the leadership of the Rotary Club of Manila and the event organizers for sustaining this meaningful initiative that celebrates and empowers Filipino talent and ingenuity.

Over the years, PEZA has witnessed this platform serve as a key driver in recognizing the excellence of the Filipino workforce on both regional and global stages. More than a celebration of individual achievement, this event reaffirms the world-class capabilities, dedication, and invaluable contributions of Filipino workers across industries. We acknowledge the vital role of our human capital in driving productivity and innovation, which are key factors in boosting the Philippines' competitiveness. A strong and resilient workforce remains essential to sustaining operations within our more than 400 economic zones and reinforcing the country's position as a premier destination for business expansion and investment.

At PEZA, we remain committed to fostering a stable and investment-ready business environment that supports not only the growth of our locators, but the creation of more opportunities for our workforce. To date, ecozone locators directly employ over 1.8 million Filipinos, and their continued operations indirectly provide jobs to about 9 million more. We take pride in collaborating with Rotary Club Manila for this year's awards as it provides an opportunity for our ecozone locators to showcase their model employees- many of whom are pioneering members and industry experts who have helped expand their operations and elevate the Philippines on the global stage. Their participation demonstrates the strength and resilience of the Filipino workforce and our shared goal of advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

We remain committed to working closely with the Rotary Club of Manila and industry stakeholders in appreciating our workforce and in creating more opportunities for our people. We wish the TOWER Awards continued success. Thank you, and Mabuhay!

Message from the President of PHILEA

Rotary Club of Manila's Tower Awards stands as a powerful reminder that the true strength of our nation lies in the quiet excellence of its workers—the men and women whose dedication, integrity, and perseverance elevate not only their organizations, but the country as a whole.

On behalf of the Philippine Ecozones Association (PHILEA), we are honored to have collaborated with PEZA in identifying and celebrating outstanding individuals from among our member locators. Across our ecozones, we witness daily the discipline, skill, and pride that Filipino workers bring to their craft. The Tower Awards shine a well-deserved light on these unsung heroes—individuals whose contributions often go beyond duty and reflect a deep commitment to excellence.

This partnership underscores a shared vision: to recognize and uplift those who embody the highest standards of work ethic and service. By celebrating their achievements, we not only affirm their value but also inspire others to strive for the same level of dedication and purpose.

As we honor this year's awardees, may their stories continue to inspire a culture of excellence across all industries. Together, let us keep building workplaces-and a nation-where hard work, integrity, and excellence are not only recognized, but celebrated. Congratulations to all the TOWER Awards honorees. You represent the very best of us.

F. Francisco S. Zaldarriaga, President