TOYM 2023 Awardees. Photo courtesy of TOYM Awards/Facebook

MANILA —  The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) Awards 2023 on Tuesday recognized 10 leaders from different backgrounds for embracing innovation.

Pole vaulter EJ Obiena, economist and author JC Punongbayan, and civic leader Kenneth Abante were among the recipients of the TOYM Awards 2023.

"These outstanding individuals have demonstrated unparalleled commitment, innovation, and leadership in their respective fields, embodying the spirit of positive change and progress," TOYM Awards said.

"They have not only excelled in their fields but have also embraced innovation with passion, driving positive change in their communities and beyond," it added.

Ruel Amparo and Mark Gersava were recognized for their innovations in agri-entrepreneurship, while Stephen Michael Go was acknowledged for his contributions to the food technology industry.

The other honorees include:

∙ Khrista Francis Desesto - OFW empowerment advocate

∙ John Mark Napao - sustainable energy

∙ Ma. Regaele Olarte - education leadership

∙ Tor Sagud - heritage promotion

Established in 1959, the TOYM Awards recognize the achievements of Filipino men and women between the ages of 18 and 40. Women have been included in the recognition since 1984.

Previous honorees of the award — for a time dubbed The Outstanding Young Filipinos — include the late senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa, singer Lea Salonga, and Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz.

10 TOYM 2022 honorees picked from 21 finalists in awards first