Philippine Information Agency-National Capital Region (PIA-NCR) Regional Director Emver P. Cortez (3L) receives the Malabon Ahon Media Awards Special Citation from the Malabon City government through Mayor Jeannie Sandoval (3R) and City Administrator Alexander Rosete (2R), among others. (Photo by: PIA-NCR)

MANILA, (PIA) -- Some 79 distinct individuals, government organizations, and business entities received recognition from the Malabon City government, led by Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, for contributing to the city’s implementation of development programs and promotion of cultural heritage as a whole.

This initiative was conducted on Saturday, May 4, in the holistic “Gabi ng Pasasalamat” for the year 2024.

“Isang pribilehiyo na magtipon ulit tayo upang kilalanin at parangalan ang mga natatanging mamamayan na nakatulong sa pagpapalaganap ng kasaysayan, kultura, at kabuuang pag-unlad ng ating lungsod,” said Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, highlighting that the effective and citizen-oriented implementation of programs will not be possible without the help of the city’s stakeholders. 

(It is a privilege to gather once again to acknowledge and give recognition to the distinct individuals who have contributed in promoting the history, culture, and overall development of our city.) 

The “Gabi ng Pasasalamat” primarily anchors the awarding of private media and government communication agencies who have aided in the dissemination of timely and relevant information about the city’s programs and services. 

The Philippine Information Agency-National Capital Region (PIA-NCR) is one of the recipients of Special Citation under the Malabon Ahon Media Awards. 

This recognition was personally accepted by PIA-NCR Regional Director Emver P. Cortez who, for his part, expressed the commitment of the government communication arm in reaching more grassroots communities to help them make empowered decisions through information. 

In addition to the awards given during the collective event is the “Epifanio Delos Santos Gawad Parangal” which aims to give recognition to the notable citizens of the city who have made a positive impact on the social, cultural, and community development of Malabon. 

It can be recalled that this award was created and introduced in commemoration of Epifanio Delos Santos, a renowned figure in Philippine history for his contribution to the advancement of fundamental rights of Filipinos through his lifeworks. 

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Noel Agustin, a teacher from Malabon Elementary School and one of the awardees of the Epifanio Delos Santos Gawad Parangal, underscored that receiving the recognition gave him an opportunity to inspire more people to take an active role in community building. 

“The recognition serves as a challenge for me to strive more,” said Agustin, expressing commitment to continue building on what he has started in terms of inculcating the value of environmental protection through education. 

Other special accolades also include the Tourism Special Awards, Business Partners Awards, and the LGU Partners Service Award which are all geared towards giving honor to partners both from the public and private sectors who have helped shape the thriving economic landscape of Malabon. 

These consist of various entrepreneurs, businesses, companies, commercial establishments, and partners for integrated initiatives on nature conservation, education, employment, housing, health, and drug rehabilitation, among others. 

“Ito ay ginanap upang mas mapabuti at mapalakas ang pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa mga Malabueno na siya ring magiging inspirasyon at maghihikayat sa mga residente na makilahok sa mga programa at proyekto ng lokal na pamahalaan para sa kanila,” Malabon City Administrator Alexander Rosete. 

(This was held in order to further improve and strengthen the delivery of services for Malabuenos which will also serve as inspiration for other residents to be encouraged to engage in the programs and projects of the local government that are designed for them.) 

Also present during the event is Senator Loren Legarda who was born in Malabon herself, embracing her familial roots that served as the foundation of her commitment to support the city’s thrusts. 

“Malabon is more than just another place on our map. Our city has changed from the green, open areas to the bustling and vibrant community that we see now. But the core of Malabon, the friendly and welcoming atmosphere remains unchanged,” Legarda shared. 

Aside from helping the city become environment-friendly through the implementation of sustainable ecological solid waste management pursuant to Republic Act No. 9003, Legarda also provided support to the establishment of women and child protection units in Malabon in a bid to co-create a secure environment for women and children. 

“Let us continue to work together, promoting an environment of cooperation and mutual respect toward a future full of hope, progress, and possibilities for Malabon City,” she added. 

The Gabi ng Pasasalamat coincides with the celebration of the 23rd cityhood anniversary of Malabon, alongside the commemoration of its 425th founding anniversary this coming May 21. (JMP/PIA-NCR)