MIREX awards Ydanis Rodríguez the Oscar de la Renta Dominican Emigrant Award

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) presented the sixth Oscar de la Renta Dominican Emigrant Award to Ydanis Rodríguez for his contributions to education, health, and Dominican culture. The Santiago-born Rodríguez, currently New York City’s Transportation Commissioner, was recognized for his political leadership, social initiatives, and support for underserved communities. His work has impacted young Dominicans and strengthened ties between Dominicans in the U.S. and their homeland.

In his remarks, President Abinader celebrated Rodríguez and other honorees as exemplary Dominicans who bring pride to the nation by enhancing their communities abroad while honoring Dominican identity. The event, he noted, underscores the government’s commitment to supporting Dominicans worldwide. Vice Minister Rubén Silié, representing Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, and María Alejandra Castillo, MIREX’s Director of Specialized Diplomacy, praised the recipients’ lasting contributions to society and commitment to Dominican values.

Rodríguez, upon receiving the award and a one-million-peso prize (which he pledged to charity), expressed his gratitude and commitment to uplifting Dominican culture and supporting human development.

Sponsored by Banreservas, Grupo Punta Cana, and others, the ceremony at the MIREX Convention Center highlighted the enduring legacy of Oscar de la Renta, for whom the award is named, in celebrating Dominican excellence abroad.