By MERLINDA A. PEDROSA
Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Javier Miguel Benitez urged the Bacolod City government and the provincial government to work together rather than compete.
Speaking as the guest speaker during Bacolod’s 88th Charter Day celebration on Thursday, June 18, Benitez said Bacolod sets the tone, while the province should help carry it forward.
“Stronger together is not just how Bacolod wins; it is how Negros wins,” he said.
Benitez, the son of deputy speaker and Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, cited Bacolod’s 7.7 percent economic growth in 2025, noting that it outpaced the national growth rate.
Mayor Greg Gasataya also 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 annual celebration kicked off with simultaneous motorcades from South Capitol Road and Araneta Street.
Awardees
Highlighting the celebration was the conferment of the prestigious Ang Banwahanon Award, the highest recognition bestowed by the city on private citizens who have demonstrated exemplary civic service and significantly contributed to the city’s cultural, educational, social, sports, and economic development.
Among this year’s awardees included Larry Carumba, who was recognized for his outstanding contributions to culture and the arts through humanitarian-themed artistic works and charitable initiatives.
Also awarded was Richard Jeric Chua, whose sustained efforts in education, youth leadership and community development 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 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 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 also received the award for his exemplary service in caring for other patients at the regional hospital ward where his own ailing father was confined 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.
Moreover, Bacolod City also recognized its Most Outstanding City Government Employees for their dedication, integrity and commitment to public service.
The awardees were Eladio Pescadero, a traffic aide from the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department; and Margie Tagle, administrative officer of Bacolod City College.
The city likewise 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./MAP, WDJ