A series of festive local songs and cultural dances, followed by the Governor’s straight-to-the-point speech that defined the province’s impressive achievements as well as its future goals, set the tone of the evening.
Clearly, the highlight of the well-attended affair was the presentation of the much-coveted Garbo sa Sugbo Awards for 2006. The honorees included:
• Judge Simeon Dumdum for the award for Best Written Decisions from the Institute of Judicial Excellence;
• A soon-to-be all-around tri-media icon Leo Lastimosa for his outstanding contributions in the field of broadcast journalism and for garnering the Best TV News Program of 2005 from the Catholic Mass Media Awards and the Best TV Newscaster 2005 by the KBP Golden Dove Awards.
• Well read, often quoted Philippine STAR and Freeman columnist Valeriano "Bobit" Avila, for being recognized as the Best Talk Show Host by the Cebu Archdiocese Mass Media Awards last year.
• The ever graceful, ultra feminine Fe Sala Villarica for founding the Ballet Center and for her tireless efforts and outstanding contributions in the promotion of ballet and classical dance in Cebu.
• Hardworking Apostolic Nuncio to Costa Rica Osbaldo Padilla and his brother, the always hands-on Apostolic Nuncio to New Guinea Francisco Padilla, for their exemplary contributions in the diplomatic service of the Holy See. Their sisters Merle Cunanan and Marietta Malinao accepted the plaques on their behalf.
• Accomplished Cebuano pianist Aima Labra Makk for her outstanding performance as an internationally acclaimed solo concert pianist, chamber musician, and music educator. She was represented by her sister Aida Labra.
• The youngest awardee Rey Rubin Chan for his remarkable performance during the Ninth World Arnis Championship in Orlando, Florida held last July where he brought home two gold medals plus a silver to boot.
Special citations were also given to Cyril de Callar of National Power Corporation, Allan Ortiz of Transco, Lee Gil-Gu of Kepco, and Dennis Villaruel of Salcon Power Corporation for their vital role in fostering and spearheading the pioneering power supply agreement for an additional 200megawatts of power in Cebu.
Congratulations to all awardees, and mabuhay!