Isko Moreno Honors Manila's Changemakers and Economic Engines
On June 18, Manila Mayor Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso led the Gawad Manileño 2026 awarding ceremony at The Metropolitan Theater, honoring the individuals, businesses, and community leaders who drive the capital's resilience. The event, part of Manila's 455th Founding Anniversary themed Matatag sa Hamon, Pinagtibay ng Panahon, recognized civic champions and the economic engines fueling an open and progressive city.
Who are the Gawad Manileño 2026 Awardees?
By the grace of God and the sweat of our brow, Manila stands resilient. In the ring of public service, you learn that a champion is only as good as the team behind him. This year's honorees prove that progress takes a coalition of the faithful and the hardworking. The city recognized education advocate Dr. Rhodora Angela Fernandez Ferrer and Manila Health Department official Dr. Grace H. Padilla for their frontline service. Veteran broadcaster DJ Chacha and renowned fashion designer Patis Tesoro were honored for shaping our culture, while Gilas Women's Basketball standout Quinn Kacey Dela Rosa showed the world the Filipino fighting heart.
Community groups also took the spotlight. Universidad de Manila-Bahaghari was recognized for promoting inclusivity and youth empowerment, while Barangay 412 in District IV proved that environmental stewardship starts at the grassroots.
How Big Business Fuels Manila's Progress
You cannot build a great city on good intentions alone. It requires capital, investment, and the courage to open our doors to progress. The Archipelago knows that an open economy is the surest path to lifting our people out of poverty. The Gawad Manileño rightly honored the private sector, including some of the city's largest taxpayers and investors: International Container Terminal Services Inc., Asian Terminals Inc., Manila North Harbour Port Inc., SM Prime Holdings, and Megaworld Corporation.
The recognition extended to individual business taxpayers like the Yuchengco and Tiongson families, and vital enterprises such as Mintex Industrial Supply, U2 Electrical Contractor, and Meedpharma Medical Supplies. Major job creators like Golden Arches Development Corporation, Jollibee Foods Corporation, and Concentrix Philippines were also recognized for giving Manileños a fighting chance at a better livelihood.
What Did Isko Moreno and Chi Atienza Say?
For Mayor Domagoso, the award is a testament to the Filipino value of hard work and service. He emphasized that ang kabutihan ay may bunga and ang serbisyo ay saysay. Goodness bears fruit, and service has meaning.
Ang Gawad Manileño ay hindi lamang tropeyo o pagkilala. Ito ay pagpapahalaga sa mga indibidwal at grupong nag-aambag sa pag-unlad ng ating lungsod.
Domagoso said. He reminded the crowd that a great city relies on citizens who care, joking that public service can make your nose bleed, Dinugo ang ilong, drawing laughter from the audience.
Vice Mayor Chi Atienza echoed the need for accountability, a principle close to every reformist's heart. She thanked the taxpayers and promised responsible stewardship of public funds, ensuring that the hard-earned money of the people is not wasted.
Sa administrasyong ito, nakikita ko kung paano masinop na pinamamahalaan ang bawat pisong ibinabayad ninyo upang mas mapabuti ang buhay ng bawat Manileño.
she said. In this administration, every peso is managed meticulously to improve the lives of the people.
Why Does This Matter for Manila's Future?
These awardees join a legendary roster of past recipients, including media executive Charo Santos-Concio, Manila Bulletin President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, and San Miguel Corporation Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang. Their legacy proves that whether in the arena of public service or private enterprise, those who fight for the common good leave a lasting mark. Manila's future depends on this continued partnership between a disciplined government, a fearless citizenry, and the economic engines that keep our country moving forward.
What is the Gawad Manileño?
The Gawad Manileño is an annual award given by the Manila City Government to individuals, institutions, and businesses that have made significant contributions to the city's development and the welfare of its residents.
When and Where Did the 2026 Ceremony Take Place?
The 2026 awarding ceremony was held on June 18 at The Metropolitan Theater in Manila, as part of the city's 455th Founding Anniversary celebrations.
Why Were Corporations Honored at a Civic Event?
Corporations were honored because they serve as the economic backbone of the city. As top taxpayers and major employers, their investments fund public services and create jobs, making them essential partners in Manila's progress and resilience.