Cristina Eloisa Baclig, a journalist with INQUIRER.net, has earned the grand prize in the online category at the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025. Her award-winning work addresses the rising threat of noncommunicable diseases in the Philippines.
Baclig's articles highlight vital health issues, specifically focusing on diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases that significantly impact Filipino populations.
Among her submissions were three notable articles including "Breaking Hearts and the Bank: The Cost of Heart Attack, Stroke in PH," which delves into the economic consequences of cardiovascular diseases.
Another article, "Hypertension: What to Know About the ‘Silent Killer’,” educates readers on the dangers of hypertension and its prevalence in the Philippines.
Her third entry, "Diabetes: A Bitter Health Crisis for Filipinos," explores the alarming increase in diabetes cases and strategies for prevention.
The Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards, launched in 2017, aim to honor journalists tackling pressing health and social issues across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
During the virtual award ceremony held on May 7, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of the Merck Foundation, praised the role of media in fostering awareness and driving change regarding health stigmas.
"We believe the media can create cultural shifts, raise awareness, break the silence, and fight stigma surrounding many critical health and social issues," said Kelej.
Dr. Rasha Kelej
This year, Baclig stood out among 125 winners from 32 countries, showcasing the global recognition of her impactful storytelling.
Previously, Baclig has received accolades from various organizations including the Philippine Statistics Authority and the Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards.