CEBU, Philippines , Philippines - The city government gave the Pajo Elementary School P100,000 and a plaque for bringing honor and prestige to Lapu-Lapu City.
The awarding was made during a regular city council session with Vice Mayor Mario Amores reading a message of gratitude from Mayor Arturo Radaza to officials of the Department of Education (DepEd) and the school when it bagged the grand prize in the 'Sinulog sa Kabataan' in Cebu City last January.
The city has assured the school of continued financial and moral support for its future participation in the Sinulog.
City School Superintendent Carmelita Dulangon said the win was achieved through hard work and through the city's support. It was the school's second straight grand prize beginning 2009.
Barangay captain and incumbent president of the Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) Leo Mercado said the city's own version of cultural street dance is preparatory for those with the potential to win in bigger contests in Cebu City.
"Amoa na nga gihas-hasan ang moapil sa Sinulog. Kana gyong maayo nga contingent gikan sa among syudad," he said, adding that Radaza is considering the idea of a bigger incentive to the next contingent of Lapu-Lapu that wins the Sinulog grand prize next year.
The DepEd also received a separate plaque and a copy of the city council's approved resolution of gratitude.
Dulangon said DepEd relies solely on the help of city hall because it does not have enough resources to shoulder the expenses when joining Cebu City's Sinulog Mardi gras.