The first set of awardees were Master Mariner Abelardo M. Pacheco, who displayed bravery and leadership during the abduction of their crew by Somali pirates in 2008; Electrician Officer Demosthenes C. Quiñones, who enhanced the image of Filipino seafarers through his consistent design and delivery of training programs for new electricians; and Master Mariner Ricardo M. Saunar, who demonstrated presence of mind and decisiveness during the 2010 Chile earthquake, were the first recipients of the Outstanding Filipino Seafarers Award, besting 26 other nominees from all over the country.

The three Filipino seaferers received a plaque of appreciation from DoLE , MTC and IMO. SMART also awarded each of them with brand new mobile phones and checks amounting to P300,000. The prizes were courtesy of SMART Pinoy and SMART Link, SMART's communication services that specifically cater  to the needs of overseas Filipinos.

SMART Pinoy offers connectivity to Overseas Filipinos and their families and friends in the Philippines using a pre-activated roaming SIM with zero maintaining balance. SMART Link is the first and only Philippine prepaid satellite telephony service which provides coverage over the entire Asia-Pacific Region, Indian Ocean, Middle East and Africa, making it the ideal and practical communication service for Filipino seafarers.