888 News Forum awards progressive leaders

Five years ago, three ladies —publisher Eilleen Mangubat, National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS) former president Jenny Franco, and broadcast executive Malou Apalisok — got together to discuss the possibility of hosting a program that would take on domestic issues as well as national interests.

Further consultation with NAITAS chairman emeritus Consul Bobby Joseph resulted in the creation of 888 patterned after the 777 News Forum, which Joseph founded in Manila.

Other personalities were tapped to join the core group, namely columnist Ricky Poca, former DOT regional director Dawnie Roa, hotelier Rey Feuntes, and this writer.

Through the years the 888 News Forum has recognized individuals and institutions that have shown leadership and provided exemplary service to the community. This year’s awardees are as follows:

• Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. Known as RAFI, the foundation is recognized for its dedication to “Touching People and Shaping their Future” by working towards elevating lives through a comprehensive approach that champions best practices in community development. In 1966, its founder Ramon Aboitiz sought ways to realize his vision with his living philosophy: “The dignity of man is best respected by helping him realize his hopes and sharing with him the burden of his fears.”

• University of San Carlos. Established in 1595, the University of San Carlos is the oldest surviving school in the Philippines. Through the years the university has developed competent and socially responsible professional and lifelong learners in an environment that fosters excellence in the academic core processes of teaching, learning, research and community extension service.

• The Cebu Doctors University Hospital. Through the vision and leadership of Dr. Potenciano V. Larrazabal, the hospital is committed to providing the best quality healthcare available that is at par with international standards. This is achieved through the synergy of advanced technologies and compassionate, competent hospital staff and medical doctors. In 2009, it became the first hospital outside Manila to be accredited by the DOT as a Medical Tourism Hospital.

• Palawan Mayor Edward Hagedorn. Hagedorn is best recognized as one of the more successful progressive local leaders of the Philippines with his passion and dedication towards protecting the environment. Under his leadership, Puerto Princesa was transformed into one of the more famous eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines.

The continued support of the local government, the Palaweños and Filipinos has helped the St. Paul’s Subterranean River, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, reach the top of the latest poll of the New 7 Wonders of the World campaign.

• Vice Governor Agnes Magpale. As chairperson of the committee on tourism and international affairs, Magpale is recognized for her commitment and unwavering support for the development and promotion of Cebu province as a wholesome premier tourist destination. As chairperson of the Committee on Women, Children and Family, appropriate measures are now in place to mitigate the ill effects of cybersex pornography, the exploitation of women and children and human trafficking.

• Vice Mayor Cynthia Moreno. Moreno is recognized for her exemplary leadership in initiating the Aloguinsan Tourism Development Program in 2009, when she was then the mayor of Aloguinsan, a town located in the mid-western part of Cebu.

She successfully organized the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS), a community-driven undertaking, which uses eco-tourism as an incentive for local residents to protect the environment.

• Engineer Nestor Archival. The House of Nature was largely built upon the energy and material flow of the larger ecosystem in which it belongs. It aims to enhance the environment by conserving and efficiently using valuable resources such as energy, water and other materials by showcasing appropriate construction technologies and eco-friendly practices. This house is also known as Archivals’ Ecohouse.

• Hotelier Marco Protacio. His high-standards of professionalism have inspired others in many aspects of their lives. His leadership has built a monumental legacy across the industry through his multi-term presidency in the HRRAC. His generosity and total dedication toward embracing the community molded HRRAC into a recognized and respected association.