ILOILO CITY – This southern city has gone a long way, reaping awards one after another and sustaining its progress with strong support from the Ilonggos.
As it celebrates its 86th Charter Day on Aug. 25 anchored on the theme “Trailblazing Ilonggos Leading the Way to Sustainable Progress”, the city government is giving back the recognition to its people, especially those who have made an impact on the metropolis.
“People make a city, and we are lucky and thankful to have people like them who made significant contributions in the development and promotion of our beloved Iloilo City,” said Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.
Among the citations to be given during the Mayor’s Dinner on Aug. 25 are the Lifetime Achievement Award and Diamond Lifetime Achievement Award created through Executive Order No. 098; and the Top 10 Outstanding Ilonggos of Iloilo City (TOIIC) Award.
The Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who have made significant and sustained contributions to the city’s development, championed the Ilonggos, and gained widespread acclaim for their work.
The recipients are Dr. Alfonso A. Uy; Dr. Henry O. Chusuey; Architect Sergio V. Peñasales; Dr. Engracio P. Cortes; and Grand Master Eugene Torre, to be recognized for their outstanding achievements which have not only contributed to the city’s growth and prosperity but have also left a lasting legacy for future generations.
The Diamond Lifetime Achievement Award is bestowed to Ilonggos who made lasting and significant contributions in their field of expertise, demonstrated exemplary dedication, passion, and commitment and whose achievements have served as an inspiration for others to follow.
The prestigious citation celebrates the recipients’ remarkable accomplishments which have generated positive impacts to the community and brought pride to the City of Iloilo.
The recipients are Sen. Franklin M. Drilon (Public Service); singer-composer Jose Mari Chan (Arts and Music); and Bombo Radyo founder Dr. Rogelio Florete (Mass Media).
The city government will also give recognition to exemplary Ilonggos who have excelled in various fields, created an impact in the community, and contributed significantly to the progress being experienced by the metro.
Carefully selected individuals who have made a mark both locally and internationally will be bestowed the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos of Iloilo City (TOIIC) Award.
“We find it fitting to honor our fellow Ilonggos who have brought pride to our city all these years,” Treñas said.
The following are this year’s TOIIC awardees: Manuel Librodo Jr., Carmela Española, Ruth Jarantilla, Edwin Bautista, Mary Ann Gumban, Cezar Consing, Jessica Dator-Bercilla, Edwin Valencia, Leila Valencia, and Jhett Tolentino.
The selection committee considered their advocacy; community service/leadership; recognition/awards received; academic and professional achievement; and inspirational/sustained excellence.
The city government will also be recognizing top taxpayers in the city during the highlight day of the city’s Charter Day celebration.
Aug. 25 is a special nonworking in Iloilo City as declared by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. through Proclamation No. 306.
“…it is but fitting and proper that the people of the City of Iloilo be given the opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration,” read the Proclamation signed by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin by authority of the President./PN
