TOYM search expands to social media

MANILA, Philippines - Social media is expected to play a critical role in this year’s search for The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines.

The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines officially launched Thursday the 2015 TOYM search as organizers look for Filipinos aged 18 to 40 who best exemplify excellence amid global competitiveness.

TOYM chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said this year’s search could not be more relevant as Filipinos today find themselves in a position where they need to make an impact not only on local shores, but also in the competitive global community.

“As the world continues to converge in tightly-knit groups, Filipinos need to establish and project a more distinct identity. The defining quality of this identity should be that of excellence,” Pangilinan said.

To allow more nominations this year, 2015 TOYM national search chairman Jaeger L. Tanco said the organization would extensively promote the search online, especially over social media.

“Social media is a powerful tool. We use it to get and spread information. So why not use it to reach the people we want to reach? The TOYM award was created to recognize the efforts of Filipinos in their selfless pursuits of public good and national development. With social media, we’ll be widening the playing field,” Tanco said.

Tanco said the organizers are looking forward to a good set of nominees this year, citing the key role of past TOYM awardees in inspiring the next generation of youth for national development and selfless dedication through their chosen profession.