Filipinos, wherever they may be in the world, are a source of strength and inspiration not only to their families but also to their kababayan, who may be needing some help in their situation. Owing to this fact, a Filipina domestic helper has been recognized as one of Hong Kong’s “unsung heroes” in the 8th edition of the Spirit of Hong Kong Awards last Thursday, November 26.
ALSO READ: Pinay OFW Featured in ‘Humans of New York,’ Shares Hardships of Domestic Helpers
The Spirit of Hong Kong Awards is an annual awarding ceremony, which aims to recognize the remarkable achievements of ordinary citizens of Hong Kong. This year was the 8th edition of the prestigious awarding event that started back in 2013.
An OFW’s Helping Hand: Pinay Domestic Helper Recognized as One of Hong Kong’s “Unsung Heroes”
The first Filipino, a domestic helper in Hong Kong, to be given the Lion Rock People’s Choice Award was Rodelia Pedro Villar, the Manila Bulletin reported.
The said distinction is given to individuals who have done philanthropic work in their respective communities. Villar’s work focused on providing psychological and material support for Hong Kong domestic workers through her Domestic Workers Corner group.
Moreover, Villar’s group also extends assistance to migrant domestic workers who have become victims of romance scams, contractual disputes, as well as sexual harassment.
In an interview with South China Morning Post, Villar said: “The spirit of Hong Kong is not limited to nationality, I hold the same notion as all Hong Kong citizens, to help others.”
In her 17 years of stay in Hong Kong, Villar said that never thought she’d be nominated and recognized at the prestigious awards event.
Despite breaking her expectations, Villar had nothing but gratitude for all the people who supported her and chose her to win the Lion Rock People’s Choice Award.
Villar told the SCMP, “It’s an honor to be the first Filipina nominated.”
The 8th Spirit of Hong Kong Awards was held virtually last November 26, which was also graced by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s Chief Executive Carrie Lam.
Here is a video clip feature on the OFW:
Congratulations, Rodelia Villar! Truly, we are very proud of your inspiring work in the community and for your outstanding contribution to Hong Kong society through your excellent and philanthropic work for migrant domestic helpers in Hong Kong.
READ NEXT: Check out Free Courses for Domestic Helpers from these Organizations