"Deeply Rooted, Standing Firm, Reaching High"

“Cebu is what it is today because of our people, we are a proud people; in our veins run the blood of Lapulapu and we are strong and courageous. Cebu is the Philippines’ first seat of Christianity, and so we continue to carry that torch of faith in our hearts even today.” quipped Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama in his inspirational message which touched this writer during the 74th Cebu City Charter Day Testimonial Dinner and Awarding Ceremony at the Grand Ballroom of the Casino Español de Cebu last February 24.

The momentous event started with the parade of awardees and the Cebu City Councilors followed by the entrance of the Philippine flag and singing of the Philippine National Anthem by a very talented young Cebuana before the welcome remarks by Cebu City Administrator Atty. Jose Marie Poblete on behalf of Vice Mayor Joy Augustos Young.

Right after dinner, the awarding ceremonies followed starting with the Mayor’s Special Award which was given to the following: Sinulog Foundation Incorporated’s Ricardo “Ricky” Ballesteros; the Cebu Contractor’s Association; the Humane International Society; International Pharmaceuticals Incorporated; WTG Construction; Balik Cebu Program and the City of Kortrijk, Belgium.

The SP Special Award for Peace and Order went to P/S Supt. Patrocinio Comendador Jr. The other awardees were: Outstanding Institutions: Bantay Bata and the Kapunungan sa mga Banikanhong Mag-uuma Alang sa Ekonomikandhong Kalambuan (KABAMEKA); Outstanding Individuals: Engr. Nestor Archival; Mr. Leslie Ryan T. Go; Ms. Cris Evert B. Lato and Engr. Augustos C. Ouano. Posthumous Awardees were Mr. Alfonso “Al” Aboitiz and Mr. Ernesto “Kapitan” Aboitiz. The very prestigious Order of Rajah Humabon Award was awarded to His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal.

“Deeply Rooted, Standing Firm, Reaching High” is this year’s theme for the 74th Charter Day celebration. The night’s master and lady of ceremonies were Vince Escario and former Miss Cebu, the beautiful Sian Elizabeth Maynard.

Mabuhi ka Sugbuanon! Mabuhi ka Sugbo! Cheers!