CEBU, Philippines — After almost 20 years since receiving an outstanding award as public servant, former Sambag I barangay captain Ramoncito “Dondon” Arquiza will get another outstanding award tonight as a private citizen.
Arquiza was chosen as one of the outstanding Cebuanos this year. He will receive The Outstanding Cebuano Award (TOCA) in the field of general services as mechanical engineer.
He is now the president of the Philippine Association of Detective and Protective Agency Operators, Inc. (PADPAO) in Central Visayas.
“Being a mechanical engineer has taught me to work efficiently and has helped me in dealing with pressure,” said Arquiza.
Arquiza also recalled that having his own business has helped him financially when he was barangay captain since many residents came to ask for financial help for medicine and other needs.
In 2000, Arquiza was named outstanding barangay captain in the city level during the regional search conducted by the Local Administration Development Program Alumni Association of the Philippines (LADPAAP).
This year’s TOCA awardees include two Cebu millennial mayors, Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas Jr. in the field of public service and Daanbantayan Mayor Sun Shimura in the field of government service.
Other awardees are Engr. Samuel Augusto Jr. in the field of environment; Engr. Allan Alvez in the field of engineering management; Dr. Cornelio Duaso in the field of science and technology; Engr. Rodel Naval in the field of mechanical engineering; Engr. Leonides Paragsa in the field of design consultancy; Engr. Siegfred Sia in the field of poverty alleviation, and Dr. Edwin Torillo in the field of education.
Now on its 19th year, the awarding ceremony will be held tonight at the Sacred Heart Center along D. Jakosalem St., Cebu City. — FPL (FREEMAN)