DAVAO City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte expressed gratitude to the recipients of this year’s Datu Bago Awards, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the city. Their dedication, he said, reflects the resilience and compassion of Dabawenyos.
Speaking on Duterte’s behalf at the 53rd Datu Bago Awards on March 7, 2025, at the Royal Mandaya Hotel, Vice Mayor Melchor Quitain Jr. highlighted the significance of the honor.
The awards celebrate individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to their respective fields while giving back to the community.
“We hope that you continue to serve as pillars of progress, sources of inspiration, and living proofs that greatness is achieved through purpose-driven action. May your dedication ignite the same spirit of service in others and inspire every Dabawenyo to be our partners toward the continued progress of our beloved city,” he said.
Davao City Councilor Pilar Braga described the Datu Bago Awards as a symbol of inspiration, honoring individuals whose dedication and achievements have left a lasting impact on the city.
This year’s recipients include the late Luis Alfonso Ybanez Aboitiz (posthumous) for innovation, recognized for pioneering corporate social responsibility initiatives at Davao Light and Power Co. Perla Pichon Kwan was honored for leadership in education, having championed academic excellence as the founder of Precious International School.
Maria Antoinette Tiukinhoy Pamintuan received the award for Creative Arts for her role in elevating Davao’s design industry internationally while supporting local artists.
Protacio Tan Tacandong was recognized for his contributions to Business and Finance, particularly in promoting ethical business practices and financial transparency.
Meanwhile, Josefina Carriedo-Tionko was awarded for Visual Arts, and commended for her efforts in nurturing local artists through the Dabawenyo Artists Federation Inc. (DAFI).
In addition to the five awardees, humanitarian Oscar S. Ong received a Plaque of Appreciation for spearheading free medical missions in Davao City and the region through Operation Care Abroad (OCA), providing aid to countless individuals in need.
Davao City Councilor Pilar Braga, chair of the Datu Bago Committee, said that the awards serve as a beacon of inspiration, celebrating individuals whose achievements leave a lasting mark on the city. She noted that their service and dedication embody the values of excellence, community service, and unwavering commitment to progress.
"Their contributions serve as an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that we each have a role to play in building a brighter future for our community," she said.
The Datu Bago Awards, the city’s highest honor, recognizes individuals whose contributions have shaped its growth and legacy of excellence. Since 1999, 84 recipients have been honored. RGP