Manila honors outstanding citizens on 455th founding anniversary
MANILA, Philippines — “The best thing about Manila has always been its people.”
That message took center stage during the Gawad Manileño 2026 awarding ceremony held on June 18 at The Metropolitan Theater, one of the highlights of Manila's 455th Founding Anniversary celebration carrying the theme, "Matatag sa Hamon, Pinagtibay ng Panahon."
During the ceremony, the Manila City Government honored individuals, institutions, businesses and community organizations whose contributions continue to help shape the capital.
While this year's awardees come from diverse sectors, they share a common mission: improving the lives of fellow Manileños and contributing to the city's continuing progress.
Among those honored were education advocate Dr. Rhodora Angela Fernandez Ferrer, Manila Health Department official Dr. Grace H. Padilla, veteran broadcaster DJ Chacha, renowned fashion designer Patis Tesoro, and Gilas Women's Basketball standout Quinn Kacey Dela Rosa. The awards also recognize advocacies that strengthen communities, including Universidad de Manila-Bahaghari for promoting inclusivity and youth empowerment, and Barangay 412 in District IV for advancing environmental stewardship and community participation.
For Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso, Gawad Manileño is more than an awards ceremony — it is a celebration of the people and institutions helping move the city forward.
Domagoso said the recognition honors outstanding Manileños whose talent, dedication and service contribute to the city's growth, emphasizing that the award carries a tradition of recognizing excellence and reminding others that "ang kabutihan ay may bunga" and "ang serbisyo ay may saysay."
"Ang Gawad Manileño ay hindi lamang tropeyo o pagkilala. Ito ay pagpapahalaga sa mga indibidwal at grupong nag-aambag sa pag-unlad ng ating lungsod," he said.
He added that Manila's success ultimately depends not only on the government but also on citizens who choose to serve and make a difference.
"A great city is not built by the government alone, but by citizens who care," Domagoso said, drawing laughter from the audience after joking, "Dinugo ang ilong."
The awards likewise highlight the role of the private sector in Manila's continued growth. Among this year's honorees are some of the city's largest taxpayers and investors, including International Container Terminal Services Inc., Asian Terminals Inc., Manila North Harbour Port Inc., SM Prime Holdings, and Megaworld Corp.
The recognition was not limited to large corporations. The city also honored individual business taxpayers, including members of the Yuchengco and Tiongson families, as well as enterprises, such as Mintex Industrial Supply, U2 Electrical Contractor, and Meedpharma Medical Supplies & Equipment Distributor.
Major employers, such as Golden Arches Development Corporation, Jollibee Foods Corporation, and Concentrix Philippines, are also being recognized for creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities for residents.
This year's honorees now join a distinguished roster of past recipients that includes media executive Charo Santos-Concio, Manila Bulletin President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, and San Miguel Corporation chairman and chief executive officer Ramon S. Ang.
