Philippines Foundation 2010 Awardees

The Philippines Foundation, Inc., founded in 1987 (23 years now), has been recognizing people and institutions who have excelled in their profession and endeavors in the community and society by way of giving Perlas Awards.

This year, 2010, Perlas Awards were given to the following valuable Filipinos and institutions: Dr. Jose “Dodong” R. Gullas – Valuable Filipino in Education & conservator of Cebuano Classics, and for his tireless efforts in the preservation of Cebuano music through HALAD 2010 and the establishment of the Gullas Museum honoring Cebuano composers and songs. Dodong proudly accepted his award in the presence of his wife Nena and children – Jiji Gullas, Jackee Gullas Weckman, Joie Marie Gullas Yu and Johnvic and Tricia Gullas; Apolinario Ocaba Leyson – Valuable Scout Master for scouting leadership skills that have contributed to youth development through the inculcation of the values of discipline and diligence; Ernesto Aboitiz (posthumous) for exemplary service to the community, specifically in human resources, environment-related and social welfare programs; Julita Urbina – Valuable Filipina in Entrepreneurship for her entrepreneurial leadership, industriousness and diligence tht have inspired the growth and development of local culinary art and trade; the Cebu Puericulture Center & Maternity House, Inc. – Valuable Institution for its efforts in providing for the maternal and child welfare needs of the community through affordable medical and hospital services, as well as high training standards in the field of midwifery.

Special citations were given to Aproniano Magalona, dedicated postman and Adonis Dave Baracian, a self-reliant, physically-challenged student.

All the awards were handed by Philippines Foundation President Fr. Ernesto Javier, S.J., assisted by past presidents Hernan Streegan, Enrique Benedicto, Ben Yapjoco and Nestor Chua. Awards presentor was Dr. Mila Espina. Before the awards, Dr. Marcelo Lopez, President of Cebu Normal University was inducted as new member of the foundation.

Before the program ended, Dr. Jose R. Gullas gave the response in behalf of the awardees. After which, Trustee Marissa Fernan gave the closing remarks. As in the past years, the program’s emcee was Elvira Luym. To all the Perlas Awardees, congratulations and God Bless!