Freeman's ProgreCebu fetes Cebu's finest

CEBU, Philippines — The Freeman has broadened the scope of its annual ProgreCebu Awards by honoring Michelin-recognized restaurants alongside outstanding individuals, institutions, and destinations that have helped elevate Cebu's standing in tourism, business, culture, and gastronomy.

Now in its third year, the ProgreCebu Awards conferred plaques of recognition on Cebu restaurants featured in the inaugural Michelin Guide Manila and Environs and Cebu 2026 during the awarding ceremony Wednesday evening.

Recognized under the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand category were The Pig & Palm, Pares Batchoy Food House, Esmen, Abaseria Deli & Cafe, CUR8, and Lasa. The Freeman cited the establishments "for serving exceptional food at great value, thereby elevating Cebu's status as one of the country's premier gastronomic destinations."

Also honored were restaurants included in the Michelin Selected 2026 list for their consistently high-quality cooking: Abli, Pares Pares, House of Lechon, Socarrat, Maya,

ATO-AH, Sialo, Kamakura, Enye by Chele Gonzalez, DIP, COCO, and Lantaw. They were recognized for strengthening Cebu's reputation as one of the Philippines' premier culinary destinations through excellence in dining.

Beyond gastronomy, the awards continued to recognize individuals, institutions, and destinations that have made significant contributions to Cebu's growth and development.

This year's Most Distinguished Destination Award was presented to the Municipality of Moalboal for establishing itself as one of Cebu's premier tourism destinations through its world-renowned marine sanctuary, thriving coastal ecosystem, and commitment to sustainable tourism and community development.

The citation also recognized the municipality's efforts to preserve its natural heritage while generating lasting socio-economic benefits for residents through responsible tourism.

Jose R. Soberano III, chairman and chief executive officer of Cebu Landmasters Inc., was named Most Distinguished Individual for transforming the real estate landscape of the Visayas and Mindanao through innovation, responsible development, and community building.

The citation likewise recognized his commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and corporate excellence, highlighting his contributions to inclusive growth and his lasting impact on communities across the region.

The Most Distinguished Institution Award went to International Pharmaceuticals Inc. (IPI), which was recognized for earning the trust of generations through excellence in health, wellness, and service.

The citation noted the company's evolution from producing an iconic Cebu-made product into one of the country's leading pharmaceutical firms while maintaining its commitment to quality, innovation, and community development.

Renowned fashion designer Cary Santiago received the ProgreCebu Excellence Award for his exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and internationally acclaimed body of work showcased on prestigious fashion runways and global beauty pageants.

The citation also acknowledged his role in elevating Cebuano creativity on the world stage and inspiring a new generation of Filipino designers, bringing pride to both Cebu and the Philippines.

In a video message, The Freeman President Miguel Belmonte said Cebu continues to drive the Philippine economy through its strong manufacturing, export, tourism, and business sectors, describing the province's progress as "not just a matter of aspiration" but already "a reality."

Belmonte said Cebu's development has been fueled by entrepreneurs who transform ideas into thriving businesses, institutions that invest in communities, and leaders who create an environment where progress can flourish.

He said the awards recognize individuals and organizations whose work has helped make Cebu one of the country's most admired business and tourism destinations.

"We honor the innovators who created opportunities, the institutions that empowered communities, and the visionaries whose contributions will shape Cebu's future," Belmonte said.

He also highlighted Cebu's growing international recognition, noting that the arrival of the Michelin Guide has placed the island on the global culinary map.

According to Belmonte, the recognition affirms the world-class quality of Cebu's food, hospitality, business environment, and tourism industry, further strengthening its reputation as an international destination.

He described Cebu as a reflection of the Philippines at its best—resilient, entrepreneurial, globally competitive, and deeply rooted in community.

Belmonte said The Freeman and the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) established the ProgreCebu Awards because "progress deserves recognition, and excellence deserves to be celebrated."

He added that the initiative underscores that progress is a shared achievement built by individuals and institutions committed to investment, innovation, and creating lasting opportunities.

Addressing the awardees, Belmonte said their accomplishments are helping write the next chapter of Cebu's growth story.

"You have demonstrated that innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment are not merely ideas. They are the foundations of enduring progress," he said.

He encouraged the honorees to continue inspiring others to dream bigger, build bolder, and help advance Cebu's success beyond its shores while contributing to the country's future.

In his welcome remarks, The Freeman Vice Chairman Johnvic Gullas underscored the importance of resilience, accountability, and remaining committed to Cebu.

Addressing guests, awardees, and partners, Gullas said growth comes from acknowledging mistakes, learning from them, and emerging stronger.

He noted that throughout its 107-year history, The Freeman has faced challenges and setbacks but has continued to evolve by confronting and learning from them.

"I wouldn't be up here talking about The Freeman if The Freeman didn't learn from these mistakes, if we didn't overcome them," Gullas said.

He added that trust is earned not by hiding mistakes but by demonstrating the ability to learn, grow, and prosper from them.

Expressing pride in representing the publication, Gullas said The Freeman's longevity reflects its resilience and unwavering commitment to serving Cebu.

He said the organization continues to overcome challenges by confronting them, accepting them, and learning from them.

Gullas also emphasized The Freeman's enduring relationship with the province, saying the newspaper has stood with Cebu through its triumphs and difficulties over the past 107 years.

"We have been there for Cebu through its ups and downs, through its mistakes, through its success," he said.

He concluded by reaffirming The Freeman's commitment to the community.

"Cebu is The Freeman, and The Freeman is Cebu," he said.

Meanwhile, the MCCI reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with The Freeman and advancing the recognition of Cebuano excellence.

MCCI President Barbara "Bambi" Gothong-Tan said the chamber is honored to have been entrusted by The Freeman for the third consecutive year to help stage the annual awards program.

"There is a saying that the true strength of a partnership is measured not by how it begins, but by how it grows over time," she said.

She said the ProgreCebu Awards celebrate not only outstanding individuals, institutions, and destinations but also a partnership that continues to flourish with purpose.

Gothong-Tan said MCCI remains committed to upholding the value and purpose of the awards, which recognize individuals and organizations whose contributions inspire others and help drive Cebu's progress.

"Recognition is important because it shines a light on stories that deserve to be told. It reminds us that progress is driven by people and organizations whose dedication inspires others to aim higher, serve better, and contribute more to our communities," she said.- FPL (CEBU NEWS)