- Time Period: Post-WW2 Period
- Year of Institution: 21 June 1954
- Country: Republic of The Philippines
The Order of the Golden Heart (or Orden ng Gintong Puso) is a distinguished order in the Philippines. Established initially as the Golden Heart Presidential Award through Executive Order 40-A on June 21, 1954, it was later elevated to the Order of the Golden Heart by Executive Order 236 on September 19, 2003.
This order aims to officially recognize individuals, whether Filipino or foreign citizens, who have provided exceptional services or significant financial or material assistance. Their contributions extend to the advancement of moral, social, and economic conditions among the Filipino populace, as well as their voluntary efforts in serving the Filipino community.
The Order of the Golden Heart Ranks
The Order of the Golden Heart consists of the following ranks:
Grand Collar (GCGH) (Maringal na Kuwintas): Bestowed upon a former or current head of State or government.
Grand Cross (GCrGH) (Maringal na Krus): Granted to a Crown Prince, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House, Chief Justice, or an equivalent official. It may also be awarded to foreign ministers or other cabinet-level officials, as well as Ambassadors, Undersecretaries, Assistant Secretaries, or individuals of comparable rank.
Grand Officer (GOGH) (Maringal na Pinuno): Conferred upon Chargé d’affaires, Minister, Minister Counselor, Consul General, executive director, or individuals of similar rank.
Commander (CGH) (Komandante): Bestowed upon Chargé d’affaires a.i., Counselor, First Secretary, Consul General (in the consular section of an Embassy), Consular officer with a personal rank exceeding Second Secretary, Director, or individuals of comparable rank.
Officer (OGH) (Pinuno): Awarded to Second Secretaries, Consuls, assistant directors, or individuals of similar rank.
Member (MGH) (Kagawad): Conferred upon Third Secretaries, Vice Consuls, Attachés, Principal Assistants, or individuals of comparable rank.
The Order of the Golden Heart Design
The badge and plaque consist of a green-enamelled Maltese cross, adorned with an oval golden medallion depicting open hands embracing a shining golden heart. Above this motif is the Latin motto “MANUM TUAM APERVIT INOPE,” and the entire medallion is encircled by a laurel crown in green. Between the laurel branches are golden laces and green leaves. Originally designed as a medal by Gilbert Perez, it was later adapted into the badge of the Order by Galo Ocampo.
The ribbon of the Order is red, while the original award featured a tricolor ribbon of blue, white, and red.
