As Iloilo City celebrates its 89th Charter Anniversary, it also pays tribute to the people whose excellence, dedication, and service continue to shape the city’s progress.

Under the theme “89 Years of Progress Towards a Better Iloilo City For All,” this year’s Charter Day celebration puts the spotlight on Ilonggos who have excelled in their chosen fields, served their communities, and brought pride and recognition to Iloilo City.

During the Mayor’s Dinner on August 25, the Iloilo City Government will confer the highest Mayor’s Citation award to exemplary Ilonggos in recognition of their outstanding achievements, invaluable contributions, and dedicated service to the people of Iloilo City.

The Mayor’s Citation awardees are Dr. Resurreccion B. Sadaba, PhD, Professor of the University of the Philippines Visayas; Ms. Febie S. Ibojos, Director of Signpost Philippines Inc.; Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; Dr. Kristine Gaona Treñas, former Chairperson of the Iloilo City Heritage Council; and Dr. Cynthia P. Palmes-Saloma, Dean of the College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman.

Likewise, 10 outstanding Ilonggos will be honored for their distinguished performance, outstanding prowess in their chosen professions and in the community, and significant contributions to the development and promotion of Iloilo City.

This year’s Ten Outstanding Ilonggos are Dr. Gracia D. Malazarte, Cynthia Concepcion-Baga, Dr. Ramon G. Zarceno, Rhea B. Peñaflor, Lucyl L. Gulmatico, Gretchen J. Demisana, Ronald R. Latap, Jefferson P. Buenaventura, Alfonso Miguel Lenard S. Tan, and Crisanto A. Añas.

For Mayor Raisa S. Treñas, the recognition of these individuals reflects the importance of celebrating the people whose work and dedication help move Iloilo forward.

“These recognitions are a celebration of Ilonggos who, in their own ways, continue to make a difference. Their achievements inspire us and remind us that the progress of Iloilo City is built not only through programs and projects, but through people who choose to serve, excel, and contribute,” Treñas said.

The awardees represent diverse fields and professions, reflecting the many ways Ilonggos contribute to society—from education, leadership, and public service to professional excellence, innovation, and community development.

Their stories also embody the spirit of the city’s 89th Charter Day theme: progress that is driven by people and shared by all.

For every achievement that brings recognition to Iloilo, there are individuals whose dedication helps create opportunities, strengthen communities, inspire the next generation, and raise the city’s profile beyond its borders.

As Iloilo marks 89 years as a chartered city, the celebration of these outstanding Ilonggos serves as a reminder that the city’s greatest asset has always been its people.

Their excellence is Iloilo’s pride. Their service is part of the city’s progress. And their stories continue to inspire the collective journey toward a better Iloilo City for all.