Describing the awardees as the epitome of sobriety, justice with heart, discipline and values, Belmonte said they serve as the people‘s "guiding light in the continued quest for sustainable development that would make us proud to be resident of this great city."
Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr., who was the guest of honor and speaker, said that the Quezon City government has officially confirmed his local citizenship when he was named outstanding Quezon City citizen for 2004.
"Our status as local citizen of Quezon City is finally confirmed. As for me the confirmation came over a little in 22 years," Davide, a resident of Barangay Holy Spirit, told a jampacked audience.
Other awardees who received the prestigious Gawad Quezon Medallion as outstanding citizen of Quezon City were PCGG chair Haydee Yorac, government service; Sen. Helena Benitez, education; Jaime Laya, arts; Leonor Ines Luciano, social work; Atty. Persida Rudea Acosta, humanitarian and community service; Manila Standard editor Julie Yap Daza, journalism, Dr. Alfredo San Agustin, medicine; and Lydia De Vega, sports.
Also honored was Andrew Tan, chairman of Megaworld Properties, who received a special citation as businessman of the year for his spearheading the development of Eastwood City, which has become one of the most dynamic economic growth centers in Quezon City.
The awarding ceremonies was witnessed by a 24-man delegation from the Royal City of New Westminster, British Colombia in Canada led by Mayor Wayne Wright.
Davide expressed his gratitude to city officials as he cited the significant accomplishment of Quezon City under the visionary leadeship of Belmonte.
"In a matter of four years under the leadership of visionary leader Mayor Sonny Belmonte, it has experienced tremendous growth amidst a population with various roots and regional background and grave urban problem and difficulties," he said.