Perlas awardees 2007

Four deserving individuals, achievers in their own fields, and a well-respected institution were given recognition during the Perlas Awards on the Valuable Filipino, an annual project of the Philippine Foundation, Inc. at SM Theater One.

This year''s recipients of the much coveted awards are Brenda Saliendra for her dedication, loyalty and professionalism as Executive Secretary to seven Presidents of the University of San Jose - Recoletos in 31 years; as secretary to the director, Sacred Heart School for Boys for three years; and for excelling in her professional skills while maintaining worthwhile human relations in the school and community.

Patricio "Junjet" Primor was commended for his many talents and artistic skills. From being a dance performer of the University of San Jose - Recoletos'' Adelante Dance Troupe, he developed into an accomplished choreographer and presently as artistic director and event coordinator of the City and Province of Cebu, demonstrating creativity, discipline and dedication in the performing arts.

Philip Rodriguez was recognized for his excellence in craftsmanship in the world of fashion, for sharing his talent and gift of creativity that showcase innovative designs of Filipino heritage in haute couture and for his contribution in the Cebuano Fashion Industry.

Ingrid Sala - Santamaria, the consummate artist, was honored for her selfless dedication and leadership in promoting classical music and developing young artists by establishing the Cebu Youth Symphony Orchestra which was elevated in 2000 as the Peace Harmonic Philippines, Cebu''s legacy to the Philippine music and the performing arts.

The C-Cimpel (Cebu-Citizens Involvement and Maturation in People''s Empowerment and Liberation) was cited for its outstanding leadership, volunteerism and involvement in clean and honest elections. A special citation for the symbol of creative leadership, industry, perseverance and service beyond self in the name of love and solidarity, and for demonstrating a strong spirit of unity and cooperation in ensuring the success of the ASEAN Summit went to all the CEBUANOS.

Worthy of resounding applause was the musical entertainment by the University of San Jose Recoletos Cebu Performing Arts. Genevieve Abuloc, 2007 Grand winner of the Cebu Popfest, gave a heartwarming rendition of Bakho sa Angel. Musical response in behalf of the awardees was the awesome performance of international pianist Ingrid Sala Santamaria with the Peace Philharmonic Philippines Quartet, Marc Hamlet Mercado, Princess Christine Ybañez, Franz Lanzaderas and Jibbie Rose Reyes.

For the past twenty years, The Philippines Foundation, Inc.- headed by its president Father Ernesto Javier, S.J.- has been showcasing the achievements of individual Cebuanos from all walks of life and institutions, as well, who have demonstrated worthwhile values and served their community selflessly. To one and all, our heartfelt congratulations.