Vidal thankful for recognition

CEBU, Philippines - While he is already retired, Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal's contribution to Cebu continues to be felt by the Cebuanos.

This is why the Cebu City Government has recognized the prelate through the Lifetime Achievement Award during the 77th Charter Day celebration last Monday. 

Vidal was the only religious figure in the roster of awardees from different fields that have contributed to the development of Cebu City over the years and was recognized at the testimonial dinner and awarding ceremony at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel.

"The first one I was named son of the city. But before that I was named a son of the province. Now is another award that we do not know exactly why. When you are growing old, it seems that there's so much award to give. What's important is that we want to know the answer," the amused Catholic Church official told reporters in an interview.

A native of Mogpog, Marinduque, Vidal stayed in Cebu even after he retired from being the archbishop last October 15, 2010.

He first arrived in Cebu in the year 1981 when he was appointed the coadjutor archbishop, assisting then Archbishop Julio Cardinal Rosales whom he replaced the following year.

In December 2010, he was recognized by the national government through Senate Resolution 306 and was followed by House Resolution 593, for his service to the people of Cebu in providing spiritual leadership and inspiration.

Locally, Vidal was awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu, the highest award given by the Cebu Provincial Government.

Also, Vidal has been declared as an adopted son of the cities of Cebu and Talisay.

Further, the University of the Visayas (UV) gave the retired church official in 2009 the title Doctor of Humanities honoris causa.

After his retirement in 2010, where he was replaced by former Palo Arcbishop Jose Palma, he stayed in a private residence within Sto. Niño Village in Banilad, Cebu City where he usually receives visitors from all sectors including public servants and media alike. — (FREEMAN)