The search for the next recipient of the prestigious Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award (STCA) has officially begun, inspiring a call to recognize extraordinary individuals whose lives reflect the boundless compassion of Saint Teresa herself.
At a media launch held last April 23, 2025 at the RCBC Plaza in Makati City, nominations were formally opened for this year’s award, which includes a Php 1,000,000.00 cash grant—with at least half donated to a charitable institution of the recipient’s choice. The STCA, now in its 42nd year, continues to shine a spotlight on unsung heroes who devote their lives to the most vulnerable members of society.
Established in 1983 by the AY Foundation, Inc. and JCI Manila, the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award honors those whose dedication mirrors the legacy of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, often called “The Living Saint” before her canonization in 2016. Saint Teresa’s life of unyielding service to humanity continues to inspire, and through this award, her commitment to the “poorest of the poor” lives on, empowering others to do the same.
This year’s theme, “Echoes of Compassion: Serving Beyond Borders,” calls attention to the need for global unity in serving humanity, celebrating those whose compassion knows no boundaries—geographical, cultural, or societal.
About Last Year’s Awardee
Last year, Sr. Minerva Caampued of the Franciscan Apostolic Sisters was recognized for her dedicated service to the Indigenous Agta people of Sta. Ana, Cagayan. For nearly three decades, she has preserved their cultural heritage while championing education, healthcare, environmental protection, and sustainable livelihoods.
She was honored on October 4, a date that holds special significance as the Philippines commemorates Indigenous Peoples’ Month. The awarding organizations hailed Sr. Minerva’s work as a beacon of hope and transformation, uplifting lives through her faithful and compassionate mission.
“She remains a shining example of compassion, inspiring hope and transformation—elevating lives through selfless service,” the award committee said in a statement via CBCP News.
In a message to LiCAS News, Sr. Minerva reflected, “I dedicate it to the Agta communities, who continue to face the challenges of defending their ancestral domain, asserting their rights, and preserving their rich cultural heritage amidst marginalization. Their strength and resilience are a constant source of inspiration to me. This award is not mine alone, but a tribute to their unwavering spirit.”
Drawing strength from Saint Teresa of Calcutta and St. Francis of Assisi, Sr. Minerva emphasized the urgent challenges Indigenous communities face today, especially threats to their ancestral lands. Her enduring commitment serves as a call to all to stand with the marginalized and continue the mission of faithful service.
A Legacy of Service
During the media launch, JCI Manila President, Jan Adrian “AP” Padiernos, spoke of the award’s significance as it enters its 42nd year, emphasizing its role in honoring those whose selflessness continues the mission of Saint Teresa. “For more than four decades, this award has recognized individuals who dedicate their lives to the most vulnerable, mirroring the spirit of Saint Teresa’s work. Her legacy teaches us that true change is made not by grand gestures, but by the quiet, everyday acts of kindness that elevate others.”
The 2025 awardee will receive Php 1,000,000.00, with a portion directed to the charity of their choice, continuing the cycle of giving and compassion that the award champions.
Pres. AP closed with a powerful message: “As we mark the 42nd year of the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award, let it serve as a reminder that the pursuit of service must be intentional. Together, we can continue to create meaningful change and ensure that Saint Teresa’s legacy endures for generations to come.”
To learn more about past awardees, visit: AY Foundation St. Teresa of Calcutta Award.
How to Nominate
To nominate a deserving individual for the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award, the nominee must have dedicated at least 25 years to serving the less fortunate in the Philippines, exhibited humble and selfless service without seeking recognition, and lived with integrity and simplicity, following the example of Saint Teresa of Calcutta.
All nomination entries must be submitted on or before July 25, 2025. Submissions may be sent to the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award Committee, located at Aquiza corner Grey Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines. For inquiries, you may contact the committee via telephone at (632) 525-6792, fax at (632) 525-2631, or email at information.stca@gmail.com.
To learn more about the award or access the nomination form, visit their official Facebook page at facebook.com/STCAward.
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