BAGUIO City Mayor Mauricio Domogan lauded former city councilor Narciso Padilla for sustaining meaningful projects meant to give joy and to honor deserving individuals despite his old age.
“We are thankful that we have the likes of Manong Nars who continues with this program of recognizing people with extraordinary performance even in his old age,” enthused Mayor Mauricio Domogan during the National Correspondents Club of Baguio- Kafagway International Sports Luminary Award (Kisla) program held February 10, set at the Silungan Center of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
“He keeps thing possible coordinating these events year in and year out oftentimes working with his wife in tow. Where else can you find such devotedness, sincerity and determination just to sustain these laudable programs,” the mayor beamed.
He then exhorted the awardees led by newly crowned mixed martial arts world bantamweight champion in Brave Combat Federation Stephen Loman, sportsman Marques Sangiao and former ONE world lightweight champion Eduard Folayang to draw inspiration from Padilla’s example and continue honing their abilities, surpass the achievements of their elders to in turn serve as inspiration to the youngsters coming after them.
At 86, Padilla tirelessly runs a string of activities for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, children and athletes spread out throughout the year.
Most of these activities are decades-old and now considered institutions in the city like the Silahis ng Pasko calendar of Christmas activities which celebrated its 44th anniversary last December.
The events which also include the Baguio Elderly Octoberbest celebration every October and the Kafagway sports award which Padilla himself conceptualized are stamped with his signature gimmickry and showmanship.
The Kisla program albeit simple was well attended by the athlete honorees who through Loman and Folayang’s speeches expressed appreciation for the honor given them.