Drilon, 11 others named ‘Outstanding Ilonggos’

ILOILO CITY — Twelve Ilonggos who have excelled in various fields of endeavor had been selected in the first-ever "Dungog sang Iloilo" search for Outstanding Ilonggos.

The 12 outstanding Ilonggos chosen were Senate President Franklin Drilon (government service); Cesar Drilon (agriculture), Alfonso Uy (business), Rolando Padilla (medicine), Rogelio Florete (banking).

Benjamin Defensor (military service), Jose Mari Chan (arts), Mervin Misajon (education), Kevin Peter Amado Piamonte (theater), Hernani Golez (science and technology), Fr. Esperidion Celis Jr. (religious service), and Lucilla Hosillos (literature).

Hosillos was the only female to make the list.

The search was primarily organized by the Iloilo City government with the Quota International of Iloilo-Philippines headed by Gleda Lim handling all details and preparations as the private sector partner.

The City Tourism Office acted as the secretariat.

In an executive order creating the committee to spearhead the search, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas said that it was high time to give due recognition to Ilonggos who have established themselves in their chosen careers in the national and international scenes, and will serve as role models for succeeding generations of Ilonggos.

The search was conducted as part of the Iloilo City 113th Foundation Day celebration. The 12 winners will be presented with citations and honors on Feb. 7 during the city’s foundation day commemoration at the downtown Days Hotel.