THE growth of the city depends greatly on its people.
In time for the 81st Araw Ng Dabaw, the City Government of Davao recognized Dabawenyos and groups who have contributed to the programs and growth of the city through "Pasidungog: Garbo sa Davao," which was held on March 12 at the Davao Convention and Trade Center, Davao City.
For this year, 86 awardees composed of individuals, groups, top taxpayers, and volunteers were feted for being the city’s significant partners in development.
Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio, in her opening speech during the awarding ceremony, underscored the importance of giving annual recognition to outstanding Dabawenyos and partners.
"This recognition is significant in our ninth decade as a city, as it serves to remind us that Davao City will not be as it is today without Dabawenyos and friends helping each other," Duterte-Carpio said.
The awardees received their plaques from the City together with an artwork which showcase Mindanawon weaving patterns.
Everyday Dabawenyo Heroes
The “Everyday Dabawenyo Hero” award is given to Dabawenyos who lived with integrity and compassion and embodied the traits and characteristics of a righteous and responsible citizen.
Given the Everyday Dabawenyo Hero Awards were: Ronie Caydan, a janitor at Davao International Airport who returned cash left by a passenger at a restroom; Typhoon Vinta volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to pack and deliver relief goods; Phillip Duterte, a public school teacher in Barangay Gumitan, Marilog District, who brought attention to the health issues that surrounds the Matigsalug community living in the area [Duterte died of sepsis from malaria. The award was received by his wife, Kathleen and their two children]; Dr. Mae Dolendo, founder of House of Hope who pushed for the creation of Children's Cancer Institute, and the first pediatric oncologist in the region.
Caydan, in his video interview, said it is not the first time that he returned unattended things to the owners underscoring that he lets his conscience lead his actions.
“Kung makakita ta og butang na dili ato, iuli gyud nato kay wala ta kablo kung kinahanglanon kayo na sa tag iya, lisod na makarma (If we saw things left unattended, it is just right to return it to the owners because we don’t know how important those are to them. Karma is real),” he said.
The city's top 10 taxpayers were also recognized.
For business tax: Davao Light and Power Company, Holcim Philippines, Davao Doctor's Hospital, Sumifru, Mindanao Shopping Destination Corporation (SM Davao Department Store), Supervalue Inc (SM Supermarket-SM Davao, Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp, Supervalue Inc. - J.P Laurel, Avenco South Corporation, and Accendo Commercial Corp.
For Real Property Tax are: Therma South Inc, Davao Union Cement (Holcim), Accendo Commercisl Corporation, Southern Point Properties Corporation, SM Prime Holdings Inc., Halifax Davao Hotel Inc., New Carcar Manufacturing Inc., Emceli Property Holdings Corp, and Avenco South Corp.
Groups, companies and organizations that played a vital role in the city’s economy; environment and beautification; public safety, disaster and crisis reponse; social services, health, and education; and tourism and the arts were also acknowledged.