The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod recently passed a resolution declaring Megaworld Corporation chairman and CEO, Dr. Andrew L. Tan, an “Adopted Son of Bacolod City.” The move comes ahead of the upcoming Bacolaodiat Festival, which is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 2.
Mayor Evelio Leonardia earlier urged the local legislative body to pass the proposal.
“This year, we will mark the Bacolaodiat Festival’s milestone year by recognizing Dr. Andrew L. Tan as a visionary and trendsetter in the real estate industry, among others, with his Live-Work-Play-Learn lifestyle formula,” the mayor said. “Without [a] doubt, he is highly respected as well in the business community.”
“The development by the Megaworld Corporation in the city has brought tremendous business and employment opportunities,” he added. “Especially that this new growth center is located so close to the Bacolod City Government Center.”
During the festival, Tan will be named “honorary mayor” and formally honored with ceremonies on February 1 at the SP Session Hall and City Mayor’s Office.
Other Filipino-Chinese businessmen who were conferred as “adopted sons” include Lucio Tan, John Gokongwei, Jr., Henry Sy, and Eduardo Cojuangco, Jr.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran said a copy of the resolution will be turned over to Tan on February 5./DGB, WDJ