DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, October 19 (PIA) -- The Negros Oriental Provincial Commission on Women (PCW) has set the deadline for the submission of entries for this year’s search for "Babayeng Garbo and Grupong Garbo sa Katilingban" in November 23.

The annual search gives a total of P150,000 in cash prizes, namely: first prize will receive P25,000; second prize, P15,000; and third prize, P10,000. 

For Grupong Garbo, winners will receive P50,000 for first prize; P30,000, second prize; and P20,000, third prize.

Already on its sixth year, the search aims to recognize outstanding women individuals and groups who have voluntarily worked and nurtured a community of men and women to advance gender equality and women empowerment.

The search is open to all women individuals and community organizations who have given their time, talent, and resources to promote the goals of gender and development (GAD). 

GAD Focal Person Josie Columna said the search is open to all women and women organizations working or doing development work who contributed to the empowerment of rural women and the promotion of gender equality in any of the following fields: agriculture, fishery, home management, environmental protection, child care, livelihood, social services, and health.

Under the Babayeng Garbo Award, the nominee must have no pending case in any court of law and she must also be involved in community work for at least two years.

For the Grupong Garbo Award, the organization must submit a certification, either from the barangay captain, local chief executive or municipal social welfare officer, recognizing its existence.

In both categories, nominations must be officially endorsed by any of the following: barangay captain, mayor, legitimate socio-civic or religious organization. (JCT/PIA7-Negros Oriental)