The Bishop Julio X. Labayen Memorial Award honors individuals and organizations whose work embodies the late bishop’s unwavering commitment to social justice, servant leadership, and the empowerment of the poor. Named after Bishop Julio Xavier Labayen, O.C.D., a pioneering advocate for the Church of the Poor, this award recognizes those who continue his legacy of faith in action. Previous recipients include Fr. Nonong Pili, celebrated for his dedication to grassroots pastoral ministry, and other outstanding individuals who have made a profound impact on their communities. This page highlights the past honorees whose lives and missions reflect the transformative spirit of Bishop Labayen.

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The Bishop Julio Xavier Labayen, O.C.D. Memorial Award Recipients:

  • 2024 // Father Andrew Kemberling shares the 2024 Award with Saint Thomas More Parish
    In 2024, the Bishop Julio Xavier Labayen, O.C.D. Memorial Award was jointly presented to Father Andrew Kemberling and Saint Thomas More Parish. Father Kemberling was recognized for his dedication to promoting stewardship and solidarity with the poor in the Philippines, including making five trips to the country to support these efforts. Saint Thomas More Parish was honored for its long-standing support of the Metro Infanta Foundation, addressing the needs of the poorest communities and fostering stewardship initiatives in the Philippines and beyond.

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  • 2023 // Eleanore Mullen Foundation
    In 2023, the Bishop Julio Xavier Labayen, O.C.D. Memorial Award was bestowed upon the Eleanore Mullen Foundation, led by Mr. Michael Polakovic and his wife, Terry Polakovic. The foundation was recognized for its longstanding support of various initiatives, including the construction of the Hardin ng Kalikasan headquarters—a center empowering women to produce traditional paper products. Their contributions have also extended to education, infrastructure projects, disaster relief, parish support, cultural preservation, and promoting stewardship within the Church in the Philippines.

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