AN ALUMNUS of the University of Santo Tomas has been named one of the seven recipients of The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) Awards for 2024.

Dr. Carlito Balita, a renowned entrepreneur behind the Carl Balita Review Centers, received the award last month in recognition of his contributions to education. He has helped thousands of professionals secure licenses in fields such as nursing and teaching.

The awarding ceremony was hosted by the Junior Chamber International Senate, with JCI Senator Dolph Saavedra presenting the honor. The panel of judges for TOFIL 2024 was chaired by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.

TOFIL recognizes Filipinos aged 41 and above who have significantly contributed to public welfare and national development.

Joining Balita as TOFIL awardees were Commission on Higher Education Chairperson J. Prospero E. De Vera III, Securities and Exchange Commission Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino, Seagull Philippines Chairman Bing N. Carrion, Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, forestry and geological sciences expert Juan M. Pulhin, and neurosurgeon Lynne Lucena.