MANILA, Philippines — Wilson Lee Flores, a STAR columnist, was given his record 14th award for “Best Opinion Column” during the 39th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) on Oct. 25 at Star Theater in Pasay City.
The CMMA rites were led by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, who delivered a special message.
Flores, who is also a realty entrepreneur, college teacher, baker and economics/politics analyst, has won three Palanca literary awards and was given this year the “Maestro Award” by Grace Christian College during its graduation ceremony in Quezon City.
Three years ago, he acquired and revived Quezon City’s 78-year-old Kamuning Bakery Café, which has also become the venue for the tertulia-inspired and non-partisan “Pandesal Forum” where leaders and newsmakers dialogue with media and intellectuals.
Last Oct. 16, Kamuning Bakery Café spearheaded the 3rd “World Pandesal Day” by giving out 50,000 pieces of pugon-baked bread for free in collaboration with Mega Sardines, King Sue hams, Fly Ace, Hobe noodles and OK Koolers juices.
Assisting in the gift giving were Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Vice President Leni Robredo and Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa.
The activity was done alongside two days of free medical and dental missions in partnership with the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry Inc. and the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association.
President Duterte sent a special message in support of the civic and cultural project.
The Catholic Church-owned Radio Veritas also invited Flores to host the “Pandesal Forum sa Veritas” at 5:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday. The program covers topics ranging from business, politics to current events.