THE top officials of the municipality of Candaba, Pampanga were named “Heroes of the Year 2020” by the Gawad Filipino awards body.

Mayor Rene Maglanque and Vice Mayor Michael Sagum were given the awards for their significant contributions in the fight against the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

Gawad Filipino Chairman Danilo Mangahas cited the roles of the local officials in containing the spread of the coronavirus in their community, especially that Candaba is one of the municipalities in Pampanga that first cleared all active cases.

He also noted the bravery of Maglanque for surviving the coronavirus infection and his continued service to Candabeño even during his recuperation period.

Sagum, meanwhile, expressed gratitude to Gawad Filipino for recognizing their efforts and the success of the Candabeños in the fight against Covid-19.

Maglanque, for his part, reminded Candabeños that Covid-19 is still around and the observance of health protocols is the best way in protecting one's self.

"Until we have the vaccine, and even when we have it, proper hygiene is still our best armor against any virus," he said.