Mapa explained that nominees can be a subsidiary or spin-off of a company that was operating back in the 80s. 'In special cases, we can award individuals who are still offering their services, like animation, but whose original companies are no longer operating in the country,' said Mapa.

In gathering nominees from all sectors in the ICT industry, CICT has partnered with Computerworld Philippines to assist them in the search. Computerworld Philippines has already sent letters to the Business Process Association of the Philippines (BPA/P), Medical Transcription Association of the Philippines Inc. (MTIAPI), Philippine Software Industry Association (PSIA), and the Animation Council of the Philippines Inc. inviting them to submit a list of nominees.

Nominated companies will be required to present contracts as proof of their pioneering efforts.