Bacolod City marked its 88th Charter Day by conferring its Ang Banwahanon Awards upon visual artist Larry E. Carumba and community leader Richard Jeric L. Chua during rites held at the Bacolod City Government Center Thursday night, June 18.
The Charter Day Awards Ceremony was highlighted by a keynote address from Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District), who lauded Bacolod for its cultural resilience and thriving economy.
Benitez, who chairs the House Special Committee on Creative Industries, cited Bacolod’s current economic boom — noting its 7.7 percent growth rate over the past year outpaces provincial and national averages, making it one of the strongest economic performers in the region.
To support Bacolod’s local talents and its ongoing bid to become a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Benitez announced a major commitment to physically bring the National Creative Industries Council to the city.
This move intends to directly link local campaigns with national funding, programs, and technical assistance guaranteed under the Creative Industries Development Act, he said.
Benitez also praised the city’s effort to spotlight chicken inasal on the global stage, describing the dish as a profound intersection of local agriculture, history, and hospitality.
Mayor Greg Gasataya and Benitez also called for stronger ties between Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.
“Stronger together is not how Bacolod wins; it is how Negros wins,” Benitez said.
Gasataya echoed the call for unity, emphasizing that mutual cooperation would benefit the city, the province, and the Negros Island Region.
“We believe that once Bacolod fights for it, the province and the region will benefit because it is clear to us that in Bacolod, we are stronger together,” Gasataya said.
The two Ang Banwahanon Awardees were cited for their genuine humanitarian spirit and transformative contributions to the community.
Carumba was recognized for his outstanding contributions to culture and the arts through humanitarian-themed artistic works and charitable initiatives.
Chua was cited for his sustained efforts in education, youth leadership, and community development that have benefited underserved children and families, particularly through support for the Bolinao Daycare Center and the establishment of a modern Child Development Learning Center in Barangay 1.
Through the Mayor’s Special Citation, the city also recognized Jose Montalbo for his 14-year commitment to empowering underprivileged youth through sports. Through the JGM Dreams Foundation, Montalbo has provided educational assistance, housing, meals, transportation, and opportunities for young athletes to compete in national tournaments, helping many pursue higher education through athletic scholarships.
As part of the city’s annual recognition program, exemplary individuals and civic organizations were honored through the “Be the Change” Award, which recognizes meaningful contributions to community development, cultural preservation, public health, and animal welfare.
Among the honorees was Maria Sol Cuenca Jolito, who was cited for her unwavering commitment to grassroots leadership in Handumanan. Through mentoring the next generation of volunteers, she has empowered underserved communities and inspired active citizenship.
Also recognized was Bacolod City National High School teacher Ariz Jasper C. Duatin for his visionary leadership in preserving Bacolod’s cultural heritage through Project HAPIT. His innovative efforts to engage young people in local history have strengthened appreciation for the city’s identity and inspired future generations.
Criminology graduate Joric Urs Requilme received the award for his exemplary service in caring for patients whose relatives were attending to errands while his own ailing father was confined in a hospital for nearly four months. Requilme demonstrated compassion and highlighted the vital role individuals can play in building healthier communities.
The BACH Project was likewise honored for its steadfast advocacy for animal welfare. Through rescue initiatives, education campaigns, and community engagement, the organization has championed animal welfare and promoted a culture of compassion and responsible pet ownership.
As part of the celebration, the Bacolod City Government also recognized its Most Outstanding City Government Employees for their dedication, integrity, and commitment to public service.
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bacolod for Rotary Year 2026, the awardees were Eladio L. Pescadero, Traffic Aide I of the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department, under the Non-Supervisory Category, and Margie G. Tagle, Administrative Officer II of Bacolod City College, under the Supervisory Category.
The city also recognized its Top Business Taxpayers for 2025, acknowledging the vital role played by the private sector in sustaining economic growth and supporting local government programs and services.
Honored under the Individual Category were Wilkinson Construction, SL & G Construction, Bacolod Triumph Hardware, KLC Enterprises, and M.K.U. Construction and Supply.
Corporate awardees included Nestlé Philippines Inc., SM City Bacolod, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc., AOB Corporation, and Negros Electric and Power Corporation.
Also honored were Bacolod’s Top Real Property Taxpayers, recognizing individuals and corporations whose timely payment of taxes helps fund public infrastructure, social services, and essential government programs.
Awardees in the Individual Category were Jose Antonio Alonte Jr., Stephanie Chiu, Catherine Ong, David Chiu, and Dennis Chiu, et al.
Corporate awardees included San Miguel Brewery, Inc., Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc., SM Prime Holdings Inc., Capitol Central Commercial Ventures Corporation, and CCLI Premier Hotels, Inc.
“Despite all the challenges, you remained committed to stand side by side with the government. That is the reason we have this awarding ceremony — because you are exemplary Bacolodnons who have excelled in your respective fields,” Gasataya said as he thanked this year’s awardees.*
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