Juanito V. Jabat: Most Valuable Filipino in the Media Profession

CEBU, Philippines - The FREEMAN publisher Juanito V. Jabat, who has spent long years dedicated to his work as a journalist, took a big bow yesterday as he received the Valuable Filipino Award in the Media Profession during the 22nd Perlas Awards at the SM City Cebu Theater One.

Jabat, who is known to colleagues as a quiet worker, who can churn out witty punch lines with ease in his writing, was accompanied by members of his family, who beamed with pride at his achievement.

His demonstration of perseverance and industry in the conduct of his work was basis for Philippines Foundation Incorporated to choose him as recipient of the award.

PFI gives out the Perlas Award annually to a chosen few, who excel in their field of work and has touched the lives of many.Rachel Dangin, Mr. Jabat’s granddaughter, said that her lolo did not expect that he would be awarded.

Rachel, a mass communications student at the University of the Philippines Cebu, said that she is very proud of her grandfather.

Aside from Mr. Jabat, three other individuals were also given awards.

Atty. Pachico Seares, editor-in-chief of Sun Star Daily, was awarded as a valuable Filipino in Journalism for his commitment in responsible journalism and reporting and dedication to the training of young writers.

For the Valuable Filipino in the field of Philanthropy, the award was given to Ramon Chiu for his continuous support to public schools by donating classrooms, library material and instructional facilities.

Atty. Augusto Go of the University of Cebu was awarded as a valuable Filipino in the field of Education for promoting the importance of education to the lives of the youth and giving consideration to students who are financially incapable of supporting their own educational needs.

A special citation was given to Rodolfo Niere, the waiter of a resort who returned the lost ring of a Balikbayan which was worth $45,000.

Niere was awarded for his honesty and for displaying commendable values.

Niere said that he did not expect the award, but is nevertheless happy and thankful. He hopes that more people would be honest and kind to others.

Also given acknowledgement for its contribution to the community was the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians for developing the academic and technical skills of the students through the courses they offer in Cebu.

The Zonta Club of Cebu I was awarded for its programs that help in the development of the community by protecting women and children.

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry was cited for its help in the economic growth of Cebu through national and international linkages. The organization also continually promotes entrepreneurship in tourism and technology and hopes to help in the financial recession felt by many.

YLAC was awarded as one of the oldest charitable institutions, which helps in upgrading the educational system through its free school.

PFI wishes that through the awardees, more institutions and individuals would be inspired to follow their footsteps and extend their help to the community. — AJ de la Torre/NLQ (THE FREEMAN)