City honors outstanding individuals, institutions

CEBU, Philippines — At least 20 institutions and individuals have been recognized by the Cebu City government on the ocasion of its 81st Charter Day for giving honor and pride to the city.

The awards were given by Mayor Tomas Osmeña during the testimonial dinner hosted by the city last Saturday at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. The awardees were divided into three categories—most outstanding institutions, individuals, and mayor’s special award. A posthumous award was also given to Vicente Rubi, Grand Master Choa Kok Sui, Roberto Aboitiz, and Nap Sentillas.

Julies Bakeshop and Mabolo Elementary School were chosen most outstanding institutions.Cebuana marathoner Mary Joy Tabal, filmmaker Remton Zuasola, actress Chai Fonacier, and Dr. Warfe Engracia were also given the most outstanding individual award.

The mayor special awardees are Amor Villanueva, Rosaline Verano, Fidel Magno, Joel Mari Yu, Michel Lhuillier, NBI Special Investigator Arnel Pura, SPO1 Alan Caumeran, Maestro David Anne, ASAP personnel, and Robinson’s Land Corporation.

During his speech, Osmeña proudly enumerated his administration’s achievements in education, health, peace and order, among others.

The mayor said the city government is surviving financially. He even bragged about the P600 million fund he obtained from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The money will be used for his urban poor program.

Dr. Teresita Manzanades, principal of Mabolo Elementary School, said she was grateful for the recognition.

"It's really an honor for us, for everybody in Mabolo Elementary School," she said.

Mabolo bested all public schools nationwide in the Brigada Eskwela Program. Manzanades said it was the collaborative efforts of all the stakeholders that made them win.

Lhuillier, on the other hand, said he is looking forward to more partnerships outside Cebu in the years to come since the city has been almost filled up already.

"Cebu is starting to be filled up so now we have to move out, that's why now I'm buying properties outside of Cebu," he said.

Zuasola was also thankful for the recognition. He said that films help address several issues of the society. He said it serves as instrument to divert the attention of the youth from vices.

"Among all the other art forms, ang film maoy usa sa pinaka-powerful nga medium sa pag-send og message because films mosud straight to our souls and hearts," he said. (FREEMAN)