St. Scholastica?s College Manila is presenting the 2008 Hildegard Awards for Women in Media and Communication at 5 p.m. on Feb. 27 at its St. Cecilia?s Hall.

The honorees are led by Palanca awardee Lualhati Bautista, who is recognized for her contribution to Philippine literature not only as a novelist but also as a movie and television scriptwriter, having been cited by various award-giving bodies. Her novels include Dekada ?70 and Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?

In mainstream cinema is Marilou Diaz Abaya, a multi-awarded film director whose works attempt to reflect social issues and condemn political oppression. She is cited for works that portray the struggle of women and children as they cope with the harsh conditions they live in.

Prof. Arche Ligo, a feminist theologian, is one of the founding pillars of the SSC Institute of Women?s Studies who initiated the SSC Mass Communication program into gender fairness and sensitivity?twin values inculcated in students, encouraging them to be future gender-fair media practitioners.

Probe is the longest running public affairs program in local television. Considered a pioneer in Philippine investigative magazine shows, it has been featuring since 1987 documentaries and reports that reflect social and political issues. Probe Productions has served as a venue for women broadcast journalists to hone their skills.

Now on its third year, the Hildegard Awards is an annual event organized by the SSC Mass Communication Department. The award is named after 16th Century Senior Hildegard Bingen, a German Benedictine nun who was a counselor, linguist, naturalist, scientist, philosopher, physician, herbalist, poet, visionary and composer.

The 2008 Hildegard trophy is sculpted by artist-filmmaker Kiri Dalena.

Last year?s awardees were Rosa Rosal for her public service work ethic; Prof. Florangel Braid for her contribution to the communication education; Emily Abrera for orienting the advertising industry on advocacy commercials; and the Women?s Feature Service, the only women-oriented news agency in the country.