by Thea Fernandez, Kirsten Duque, and Kleio Agacite

In fulfillment of its thrust to recognize the sterling achievements and significant contributions of outstanding Bayambangueños in various fields, the Local Government Unit of Bayambang conferred the highly acclaimed Matalunggaring Awards on nine distinguished individuals at the Balon Bayambang Events Center, April 4.

The formal luncheon was organized by Sangguniang Bayan Secretary Joel Camacho together with his trained team of ushers and usherettes.

This year’s batch of awardees is composed of Hon. Judge Cynthia Martinez-Florendo (government service), indie film director Allan Michael Ibañez (arts and culture), Dr. Clarita D.G. Jimenez (education), Mrs. Norma Junio-Lozano (community service and development), Rev. Fr. Reginaldo Mara Mananzan (humanitarian service), Mr. Josefino T. Mataban (business and entrepreneurship), Mr. Oscar O. Ora (mass communication), P/Senior Master Sergeant Eduardo G. Santiago (military and police service) and the late Honorable Levin N. Uy (public service.)

Matalunggaring is a Pangasinan word that means “outstanding.” With this, by virtue of Sangguniang Bayan Resolution No. 104, s. 2018, Matalunggaring Award was coined as the highest recognition and honor given to a Bayambangueño who has not only excelled in his chosen vocation but also has made significant contributions to his community and has made a mark for Bayambang’s image. It is not an award that one can apply for or can be personally solicited by any interested individual. It is to be conferred only upon nomination by a highly distinguished group or individuals with integrity, high moral standards, and other positive traits.

“Maganda ngayon na mayroon tayong tradisyon na Matalunggaring Awards na kumikilala sa mga natatanging Bayambangueños,” says Municipal Mayor, Dr. Cezar T. Quiambao in his speech during the awarding ceremony. “Dahil sa mga pagkilalang ito, nalalaman natin na hindi pa rin pahuhuli ang bayan ng Bayambang.” Quiambao added.

“This is to create an impression. This is to create an idolization of exceptionally patriotic Bayambangueños that have done plenty of things to emulate in this town and be an inspiration, especially to the young ones,” said Hermano Mayor, Henry J. Fernandez in his introductory speech.

The awardees received a golden trophy with the logo of the municipality of Bayambang that signifies the tribute given to them as one of the town’s most outstanding citizens. The trophy of honor was thoughtfully designed as inspired by the Ramon Magsaysay Award.

The awardees were evaluated by the Matalunggaring Awards Committee according to their achievement related to their chosen craft and their significant contributions to their community and to Bayambang as their hometown. This year’s eminent screeners were Dr. Julie Junio, Dr. Nicolas Miguel, Dr. Francisco Zaragoza, Prof. Januario Cuchapin, and Dr. Annie Manalang.

On its second year, the Matalunggaring Awards have exalted a total of 19 Bayambangueños. Through this prestigious award, the LGU and the Screening Committee hope to inspire more individuals to better themselves not only for their own welfare but also for the town of Bayambang. (Photos by Thea Fernandez, Klieo Agacite, and Wenchie Artacho)

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