The Department of Tourism Region VIII has extended the deadline for nominations to the Outstanding Eastern Visayans Awards (OEVA) until June 3, 2026, in a move aimed at giving the public more time to recognize individuals and organizations contributing to the region’s development.
The extension was announced as the agency seeks to gather more nominations highlighting leadership, service, and impact across Eastern Visayas.
“Through the extension, we hope to hear more inspiring stories from across the region and encourage more communities and organizations to bring forward deserving individuals by submitting their nominations,” said DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa S. Tiopes.
Launched in April, the OEVA is a new regional awards program recognizing achievers in ten sectors, including arts and culture, tourism, public service, governance, business, innovation, science and technology, education, research, environmental protection, health, youth leadership, media and communication, faith, and philanthropy.
Nominations are open to individuals from Eastern Visayas or those who have rendered significant and documented service to the region.
Entries may be submitted by organizations, industry peers, and through endorsed self-nominations.
After the submission period closes, entries will undergo a merit-based evaluation process, including screening by independent validators.
Shortlisted candidates will proceed to interviews before final selection by the Board of Judges.
To ensure transparency, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Philippines will serve as the official tabulator of results.
The Board of Judges includes Tiopes; Henry Gosyco of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tacloban-Leyte; Victor Baguilat Jr. of Kandama Social Enterprise; Olympian Akiko Thomson-Guevara; and other distinguished representatives from various sectors.
Winners will be honored during the inaugural OEVA Awards Night on July 18, 2026, in Tacloban City.
Awardees will also receive a grant intended for a community, advocacy, or institution of their choice.
“Not all meaningful work is immediately seen, but its impact is often felt across communities over time,” Tiopes said, noting that the program aims to spotlight often-unrecognized contributions shaping Eastern Visayas.
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