40th Gintong Parangal — Dangal ng Malabon Awards 2025 (Photo from KaSaMa Inc.,)
A total of 278 outstanding Malabon residents, institutions, and organizations were honored during the 40th Gintong Parangal 2025 held on Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Rizal Hotel in Manila.
The event was organized by Katiwasayan para sa Mamamayan / Kalipunan ng mga Samahan sa Malabon Inc. (KaSaMa Inc.), a civil society coalition led by former Congressman Ricky Sandoval, in partnership with the Malabon City government.
The annual ceremony recognizes individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to uplifting Malabueños and strengthening community development.
Mayor Jeannie Sandoval encouraged the honorees to continue their advocacies.
“Bilang katuwang ng KaSaMa Inc. para sa pagtitipong ito, taos-puso po ang ating pagbati sa mga indibidwal, institusyon, at organisasyon na kinilala sa ika-40 na Gawad Parangal (As KaSaMa Inc.’s partner for this gathering, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the individuals, institutions, and organizations honored at the 40th Gawad Parangal),” she said.
“Kayo ang naging inspirasyon at suporta ng KaSaMa at ng pamahalaang lungsod sa patuloy na pagbibigay ng serbisyo at pagsulong ng adbokasiya para sa mga kapwa natin Malabueño at Pilipino (You have been the inspiration and strength of KaSaMa Inc. and the city government in continuing to provide services and advance advocacies for our fellow Malabueños and Filipinos),” Sandoval added.
The mayor expressed her gratitude and encouraged the awardees to continue the work they have started—their advocacies and mission—for the continued progress of their community.
Professionals who excelled in their fields were honored with the Huwaran ng Malabon and Dangal ng Malabon (Hall of Fame) awards.
Nineteen former Outstanding Citizen awardees were also recognized, including Senator Loren Legarda, a prominent media executive Atty. Felipe Gozon, and singer Erik Santos.
Students received the Gawad Pagkilala Award, which honored 78 BAR/Board/PRC passers, 85 magna cum laude graduates, 5 summa cum laude graduates, and 13 post-graduate degree holders.
Sixteen individuals who represented Malabon in international competitions received the International Award, while 27 institutions were recognized for their contributions to local development.
A Special Award (Natatanging Pagkilala) was given posthumously to Rufina Sadlao De Lucas, owner of the heritage brand Rufina Patis.
Two individuals were also honored with the Ramon Magsaysay Award.
Awardees underwent a rigorous screening process following the nomination period in Sept.
The trophies presented during the ceremony were inspired by the works of renowned sculptor Michael Cacnio, creator of the Tambobong Monument in front of Malabon City Hall.
The event was attended by City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete, city councilors, batangay officials, entrepreneurs, institutions and civil society organizations.
Rosete said the recognition highlights individuals and institutions that have inspired fellow Malabueños to pursue community-building and excellence.
“Ang seremonyang ito ay mahalaga dahil bawat indibidwal at institusyong binigyang pagkilala ay tunay na namuno, nagserbisyo, at nagbigay-inspirasyon sa kanilang kapwa Malabueño at kapwa Pilipino upang ipagpatuloy ang pag-abot ng mga layunin at pangarap para sa mas maganda at mas maunlad na mga komunidad (This ceremony is important because each individual and institution recognized here has truly led, served, and inspired their fellow Malabueños and Filipinos to continue pursuing dreams and aspirations for stronger and more progressive communities),” he said.