WORLD-RENOWNED fashion designer Cary Santiago is one of the awardees in the 3rd ProgreCEBU Awards. (Photo via Calvin Cordova)
CEBU CITY—Leading contributors in tourism, business, healthcare, and creative industries took center stage during the 3rd ProgreCEBU Awards on Wednesday night, July 22, in a hotel in Mandaue City.
The Municipality of Moalboal, Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI) founder and chairman Jose R. Soberano III, International Pharmaceuticals Inc. (IPI), and world-renowned fashion designer Cary Santiago were awarded for their impact on regional development and excellence in their fields.
Known for its iconic sardine run and world-class diving sites, Moalboal received the Most Distinguished Destination Award for promoting sustainable tourism while protecting its coastal resources.
Soberano took the Most Distinguished Individual Award in recognition of his leadership in growing Cebu Landmasters into one of the country's top regional property developers.
The Most Distinguished Institution Award was awarded to IPI for its decades-long contribution to the healthcare sector.
IPI was established in Cebu in 1959 and expanded its reach nationwide while maintaining programs that support public health, community development, and environmental protection.
Santiago, on the other hand, took home the ProgreCebu Excellence Award for bringing Cebuano talent to the international fashion scene.
Santiago’s couture creations have earned recognition in global fashion events and beauty pageants, showcasing Filipino artistry to audiences around the world.
Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) President Barbara Gothong Tan was the guest speaker of the event.
Tan highlighted the importance of recognizing individuals and organizations that create meaningful impact as it encourages innovation while inspiring others to contribute to Cebu's continued progress.
“Recognition is important because it shines a light on stories that deserve to be told. It reminds us that progress is driven by people and organizations whose dedication inspires others to aim higher, serve better, and contribute more to our communities. That is what makes ProgreCebu more than an awards program,” Tan said.