SAC set to honor Honoridez as “Sportsman of the Year”

CEBU, Philippines — For the first time, the Sportswriters Association of Cebu (SAC) will confer one of its highest honors to a woman — and Jessica “Jiji” Jawad-Honoridez deserves it well.

A decorated coach and a well-respected sports official and organizer, Honoridez will be recognized as “Sportsman of the Year” in the highly anticipated 39th SAC-San Miguel Beer All-Cebu Sports Awards on April 26 at the Cube Wing of SM Seaside City.

Honoridez’s path to distinction was shaped by both triumphs and heartaches.

As a former table tennis player, she once dreamed of joining her brother, the late Erne Jawad, in the national team.

But tragedy struck when Erne was stabbed to death while doing preparations for an event he was organizing, unexpectedly redirecting Jessica’s life.

In memory of his brother, Jessica organized a tournament, the Erne Jawad Cup. It started small but grew into one of the longest-running table tennis events in the country which is now on its 33rd year.

Against the odds, Jessica nurtured this event despite limited resources, relying on her family’s support and the generosity of individual donors.

Her ability to ensure professionalism and fairness, even with her own players officiating, set a standard that has kept the tournament thriving.

Beyond her work with the Jawad Cup, Honoridez has managed numerous events, mentored athletes to national prominence, and instilled a strong sense of discipline in her players.

Strict during training and competitions, she acts as a nurturing mentor — often like a mother or older sister — outside of the sporting arena.

Jessica’s dedication extends far beyond medals and trophies, as it later led her to become University of Cebu’s athletic director and later as commissioner of the Cebu City Sports Commission.

She champions the well-being and growth of athletes as she emphasizes education as a critical fallback after their varsity days, ensuring they are prepared for life beyond sports.

Honoridez, however, said she couldn’t do all of it without the support of UC owner Atty. Agusto Go and her daughter, now UC President Candice Gotianuy.

Honoridez said their tireless support to their sports programs has made her dream of producing an Olympian a reality through weightlifters Elreen Ann Ando and Febuar Ceniza.

This as Honoridez fought for the weightlifting program of UC to stay even as competitions were just so few.

Honoridez’s influence reaches deep into the sports community, where she is regarded as a dependable figure during challenging times, sharing her blessings with others.

For Jessica, SAC serves as an inspiration.

“You sportswriters keep us going! Whether in victory or adversity, your stories solve problems and motivate coaches and athletes to strive for the best results,” Honoridez said.