MANILA, Philippines ? In recognition of children of Overseas Filipino Workers who have exhibited exceptional abilities in academics, business, and sports and leadership qualities in their communities, the Bank of the Philippine Islands is now accepting entries for this year?s Search for Ten Outstanding Expat Pinoy Children.

?We aim to actively participate in nation-building by honoring exceptional children and family members of our modern day heroes, the Overseas Filipino Workers,? says Teresita Tan, BPI EVP and Group Head of Overseas Banking and Channel Services Group.

First introduced in 2007, BPI?s Search for Ten Outstanding Expat Pinoy Children reflects the bank?s commitment to continuously support and recognize the efforts and sacrifices of Expat Pinoys and their children as they go beyond borders for their families.

The Search will have 10 winning students in four categories: seven students for the Ibang Klaseng Talino Award, and one each for the Ibang Klaseng Community Leader Award, Ibang Klaseng Entrepreneur Award, and Ibang Klaseng Artist/Athlete Award.

The Search is open to children of overseas Filipinos with current work contract abroad, college students not more than 21 years old, presently enrolled in a 4-year course and with no failing grade.

To join, nominees must submit an essay titled ?What is my role in nation building as a child of an Expat Pinoy? or alternatively ?Ano ang papel ko sa pagpapaunlad ng ating pamayanan bilang anak ng isang Pinoy Expat?? in either English or Filipino and must have at least 1,500 and a maximum of 2,000 words.

Entries (including the essay and other required documents) must be submitted on or before Sept. 30, 2010, and must be delivered personally or mailed to Paul Joseph V. Fonte, BPI Search Project Secretariat, 9F BPI Card Center, 8753 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. Search application form and campaign guidelines are available at www.bpiexpressonline.com.

For more information, contact the Program Secretariat at 816-9011 and 845-5414.