Annual Perlas Awards honors outstanding Cebuanos

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 commitment and service to the Cebuanos have set the standards for responsibility to the community.

A committed doctor, an enterprising inventor and a dedicated civic leader, a devoted teacher, a caring family man and an indefatigable businessman are this year’s recipients of the 15th annual Perlas Awards on the Valuable Filipino 2002, awarded in ceremonies at the SM Theater 1 in Cebu City.

Dr. Suga Soto-Yuvienco was cited for her passionate determination for volunteerism and her tireless contribution to women’s health care for over half a century.

Eduardo Go Ching Hai, a civic leader and a catalyst in economic innovations, was awarded for his inventive skills in corn milling equipment and for his patented barge.

Hugo Streegan was recognized for his pioneering success in entrepreneurship, spanning long years of creative productive craftsmanship, and in the management of furniture manufacturing.

Vincent Taladro, a persevering young man who worked his way peddling candies, bottled water and Cebu delicacies, such as otap and ampao to finish a course in teaching, eventually taught at the Balamban Learning Center while he pursued a masteral degree.

Cesar Noel Laspiñas was applauded for his efforts in the family business in the field of music and audio-video. He has been a forerunner in the Cebu pop fest, which upholds Cebuano singers and composers.

The Don Bosco Technological Center, run by the Salesian Fathers, was given the Valuable Institution Award for training youths in technical skills within proper work values.

The Best Buddies Club, Philippines, an organization of professional and volunteer students actively involved in community outreach programs, was given a special citation for valuable youth activities that assist the disabled to become an integral part of the mainstream of society.

Fr. Ernesto Javier of the Society of Jesus and incumbent president of the Philippine Foundation had this to say: "The awardees, as individuals and institutions, would do any nation proud, whose accomplishments are beyond the ordinary."

The other officers and directors of the organization, include Efren Valiente, executive vice president; Marissa Fernan, vice president; Lourdes Jereza, corporate secretary; Tessie Chan, assistant corporate secretary; Michael Go, treasurer; Elvira Luym, assistant treasurer; John Domingo, auditor; and Nelia Neri, PRO.