Bacolod honored the exceptional individuals and organizations that have improved the lives of Bacolodnons during the 86th Charter Day Program, held in the grand lobby of the Bacolod municipal government center on June 18.
Charter Day is the day when the LGU honors the outstanding people and businesses that have contributed to Bacolod's current state.
“There is no more fitting way to celebrate the city’s 86th year than to thank and honor those who have helped shape Bacolod into what it is today,” Lone District Rep. Greg Gasataya said.
Top awardees
Three were bestowed with the prestigious "Ang Banwahanon Award," and three others were granted the "Be The Change Award".
The "Ang Banwahanon Award" honorees include Gold Hearts Club founder Marigold Ponce-Tangco, volunteer fireman Bryant Lao, and restaurateur Nestor “Aboy” Evaristo.
Fairly Pretta, a senior psychology student at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, received the "Be The Change Award" for her efforts to assist an elderly father and his mentally ill son.
Another recipient is Sagup Negros: Food and Waste Mitigation Initiative, a nonprofit committed to recovering food waste and turning it into high-quality meals. Rounding up the list of winners is Edwin Segovia, a Grade 6 teacher at Banago Elementary School II, who spearheaded the "School Supplies Mo, Sagot Ko" program,
Institutionalizing the award
Established by City Ordinance No. 494, the "Ang Banwahanon Award" is the most prestigious honor awarded to a Bacolodnon whose life or contributions have had a significant impact on the city's development in the areas of economics, culture, sports, social justice, morality, and education.
City Ordinance 1042, which was passed in 2023 and is also referred to as the "Be the Change Ordinance," established "The Be the Change Award" to honor Bacolodnons who uphold and exhibit excellent citizenship and their charitable initiatives.
It was also part of the city’s exploration to find “super persons.
