IN celebration of the greatness and pride of the Cebuano people, Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia handed out honors to eight awardees at the Capitol Social hall last night, during the governor’s ball.

“Tonight, we celebrate this pride by honoring those who sustain it, who, by their acts and their achievements, nourish this pride in being Cebuanos,” said Gov. Garcia.

The eight included Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia, who was governor for three terms, for his exemplary performance as public official. Also among the eight was lawyer Winston Garcia, president and general manager of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), for “overhauling the near-bankrupt agency into the most profitable government enterprise in the Philippines.”

The other awardees are Sun. Star Cebu editor-in-chief Pachico A. Seares for “blazing the trail of community papers by improving its content, coverage and newsroom procedures” and for raising journalists’ sense of accountability; Nature’s Legacy Eximport owned by Pete Delantar for manufacturing “modern, eco-friendly” furniture and home accessories that have earned recognition both locally and abroad; and Dr. Francisco Nemenzo Jr., former president of the University of the Philippines, for his “commitment to the quest for academic excellence” and the modernization of the university.

Also in the list were Lt. Pedrito Cadungog, commanding general of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, for “proving that hard work, patience and determination can triumph over adversity”; Cerge Remonde, Presidential Management Staff chief, for holding crucial positions in the Arroyo Cabinet; and Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano for his “unrelenting efforts in promoting both the tourism industry of Cebu and the country.”

Citations went to Taiheiyo Cement Philippines Inc., for supporting the Capitol’s education and school building program; Korea Electric Power Corp., for helping in the Province’s electrification program; the Fil-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Inc. for its contributions to the Province’s education program; and Shangri-la’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa for its assistance in the Province’s professionalism program for its employees.

Ramon Chiu also received commendation for his corporate social responsibility and “valuable contributions to the Province’s education system

“The people of Cebu are proud of you, except perhaps for one or two who, by your stellar achievements, are painfully reminded of their own mediocrity or puny existence,” said Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia.

Earier, media have reported Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and businessman Crisologo Saavedra’s criticisms against the awards.

Gov. Garcia, in her speech, also emphasized that when Cebu was established as a province 439 years ago, it was not the beginning, but merely a confirmation of the Cebuanos’ long and rich history as a people.

“Almost four centuries and four decades later… Cebu stands united, a unity that is stronger still, and the strongest it has ever been for as long as history can remember,” she said.

“What we really celebrate tonight is the Cebuano people, whose history predates (the declaration as province), the enduring hope that is written in its margins, and the pride that lies beyond that parchment, and moves a people to a bright and prosperous future as One Cebu that is our destiny,” added the governor.