CEBU, Philippines - Clad in a white polo shirt distinct from the formal attire worn by the other awardees and guests, Governor Hilario Davide III received his award last Saturday night for his work as head of the crisis management committee in the tragic sea accident in Talisay City.
Davide led this year’s recipients of The Outstanding Cebuano Award (TOCA) for his achievements in the field of government service.
In his keynote speech, Davide said he is proud of the unity shown by Cebuanos in responding to the tragic incident that claimed at least 31 lives (as of yesterday) when a passenger vessel of 2GO collided with a cargo ship of the Philippine Span Asia Carrier Corporatin last Friday night.
“I am really proud sa mga Cebuanos sa gipakita nga unity,†Davide said.
He said the incident, no matter how unfortunate, proved that Cebuanos can set aside political differences for a common goal.
He said the award may be ‘too advanced’ as he has just returned to government service following his win in the recent elections, but it imposes upon him the obligation to work hard in serving the Cebuanos in the next three years.
Davide spent most of his time on stage updating the audience on search and rescue efforts, as well as on relief operations for victims and survivors. Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama who graced the affair also gave related updates.
Both Davide and Rama left the awarding ceremony ahead of the others to return to the operation center.
The other awardees include former San Francisco mayor Alfredo Arquillano for environment (risk reduction), Romulo Aying for entrepreneurship (general services), Junard Chan for entrepreneurship (poverty alleviation), Maria Fema Duterte on environment (forest protection and preservation), former senator Rene Espina in the field of public service, William Maceren on management, Andy Uy on entrepreneurship, Rosa Suan on public service (barangay level), and Dr. Stella Ygoña on public health services.
TOCA aims to honor outstanding Cebuanos for their contributions in the community and in nation building.
The award categories are extended to Cebuanos who excel in their own fields of endeavor, including entrepreneurship, management, government service, public service, engineering, medicine, accountancy, law practice, judiciary, and community service.
The awarding ceremony at the Sacred Heart Center last Saturday night was the highlight of the 31st anniversary celebration of DYDD’s “Tingog Sa Lungsod Programâ€. — (FREEMAN)