Jhett Tolentino, originally from Barangay Calumpang in the Molo district of Iloilo City, who won the Tony Award for Best Play in 2013 and Best Musical in 2014, turned over two trophies to the Iloilo City Gallery yesterday.

He hopes his trophies, one for being named among the Top 10 Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in 2016 and a National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Ani ng Dangal award, will serve as an inspiration for young people.

“Every Ilonggo needs to support each other amidst the different controversies and unite as one to sustain the progress of the city,” said Tolentino. “I will always be proud of my roots and being an Ilonggo.”

The Tony Award winner also said he hopes to bring more recognition to Iloilo City./WDJ