GMA Brandtalk
Tracking
Archives
Empowerment awardees Francisco and Corazon Reyes: Partners in healing and service
An emergency room physician and surgeon and his corporate nurse wife were among the honorees at Fiesta in America's Empowerment Awards on August 9, 2026, where they were recognized for decades of professional excellence and community service.
Dr. Francisco Reyes and his wife, Corazon Reyes, RN, received the Lifetime Empowerment Couple Award for Healing, Heritage and Humanitarian Service during a grand ceremony at the Newark Liberty Airport Marriott Hotel. They were among nearly two dozen awardees representing diverse professions and fields of expertise.
While Corazon is no stranger to recognition, the award marked a first for Francisco, affectionately known as Kits to family and friends.
"This is my first award," he told The FilAm shortly before taking the stage with Corazon to receive the plaque from Fiesta in America founder Fernando Mendez and Laura Garcia, honorary chairperson of the Empowerment Awards.
"This is enough for me," he added with a shy smile.
When it was jokingly pointed out his wife has won more awards, he said, "That's okay, she deserves it."
At 89, Francisco walked to the stage with the aid of a cane. He has been undergoing dialysis treatment for the past two years, but the physical challenges have not diminished his gratitude for a career devoted to caring for others.
For 38 years, Francisco served at Christ Hospital in Jersey City, working simultaneously as an emergency room physician and assistant surgeon. Before coming to the United States, he practiced medicine at the National Orthopedic Hospital in Manila. It was there that he met Corazon.
Her family had brought her older brother to the hospital for treatment after an accident, and Francisco, the attending physician, became interested in the young nurse.
"I pursued her," he recalled smiling. They married in 1972 and began a life together in New York City.
More than five decades later, the pursuit has become an enduring partnership. The couple have four children.
Francisco retired from medicine in 2016. Looking back on his long career, he said that while he appreciated the recognition, he does not go after accolades.
"Masaya ako at nakatulong naman sa mga tao (I'm happy because I was able to help people)," he said.
Corazon, meanwhile, built a distinguished career of her own. She worked for 36 years as a staff nurse with JPMorgan Chase before becoming a healthcare consultant serving executives in New York. In 2018, she was named among the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World, an honor recognizing Filipino women whose achievements and leadership have made an impact.
Together, the Reyeses have also devoted considerable time to humanitarian, cultural and civic initiatives across New York and New Jersey. They have held leadership positions in prominent community organizations.
The Reyeses were joined by an accomplished roster of Empowerment Awardees, including educator Rosemarie Parreno, PhD; public health leader Elvy Barroso; international development professional Rosalinda Rupel; adult-community housing owner Senen Cabalfin; medical laboratory scientist Ramona Gapasin; nurse executive Janet Cuaycong; nurse executive director Warly Remegio; and assistant professor of nursing Jamille Ramos.
Other honorees included banking executive Michael Molin; pastry artisan Francia Magsaysay; healthcare professional and philanthropist Daisy Macadaeg; nonprofit executive Ria Serrano; assistant director Edynne Loquellano; designer and artist Marcos Panlilio; business leader and pastor Myk Alba; and Jersey City public servant Pam Andes.
For chairperson Garcia, the People's Ball is "more than a gala."
"It celebrates Filipino excellence that turns individual achievement into community strength," she said.
Over the years, the Empowerment Awards have recognized more than 140 individuals in business, healthcare, the arts, public service, education and community leadership.
This year, the People's Ball introduced the Intergenerational Impact Award, presented to Ria Serrano. The award recognizes leaders whose "experience and influence are passed on to those who will shape the community's future."
For Francisco and Corazon Reyes, that idea of passing something forward has been at the heart of their lives together. — The FilAm
