Recognizing Cebu's Gems

The Philippines Foundation recently paid tribute to individuals with admirable traits and values who serve as role models to the youth, and to institutions, whose service to the Cebuanos have set the standards for responsibility to the community.

A dedicated priest, a fashion designer, a civic leader, a charitable institution, and a children's choir are this year's recipients of the Perlas Awards on the Valuable Filipino 2006, awarded in ceremonies at the SM Theater 1 in Cebu City.

FATHER HERMAN VAN ENGELEN, SVD, was cited for his comprehensive research and study on drainage, drinking water systems, flood control, waste water disposal, installation of water laboratory, hydrometric networks and Water Data Bank in Cebu, Leyte and Palawan, for his leadership in channeling the Dutch support water project REMIND in Cebu and more important for the much needed extensive development of the Master Cebu Drainage Plan.

VIRGINIA ROMOFF, a well-respected, timeless fashion designer was applauded for her pioneering efforts in setting the trend in Cebu's fashion industry and lifestyle. In a spectacular career that has reached its golden years, Romoff has made her indelible mark in Philippine fashion, specifically Cebu and its neighboring islands.

JUAN "DODONG" AQUINO (Posthumous) was recognized for his passionate volunteerism and exemplary management of various cultural and sports related events, most significant, the Sinulog Festival which has gathered through the years millions of devotees and spectators to Cebu.

THE MANDAUE CITY SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS CHILDREN'S CHOIR, as Valuable Institution for Arts and Culture. Spreading the message of peace and love through the universal language of music, the young Ambassadors of Goodwill continue to enthrall music enthusiasts, heartwarmingly contributing to the growth of choral literature.

Under the tutelage of Dennis Gregory Sugarol, choir master and director, the 30-member choir won the Grand Prize in the National Music Competition for Young Artists held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2004.Indeed Sugarol steers the bow and charts the way toward more accomplishments and rewards for the Mandaue City School for the Arts Children's Choir.

THE SAINT JOSEPH FOUNDATION, as Valuable Institution for Community Projects and Services, is an organization of dedicated and driven ladies whose vision and mission are to uplift the livelihood of the underprivileged. The members selflessly volunteer their time, skills and resources to laudable projects geared at assisting individuals earn a decent living. They likewise extend scholarships to deserving high school students and support volunteer nuns assigned in hospitals.

The officers and trustees of the Philippines Foundation are Fr. Ernesto Javier of the Society of Jesus as president, His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal as Spiritual Adviser, Ambassador Francisco Benedicto, Honorary Chairman, Dr. Efren Valiente, Executive Vice President, Marissa Fernan, Vice President, Dr. Lourdes Jereza, Corporate Secretary, Michael Go, Treasurer, Elvira Luym, Assistant Treasurer, Consul John Doming, Auditor, Atty. Merle Cunanan, Legal Councel and Nelia Neri, Public Relations Officer.