The message of civic pride and collective progress took center stage during the Gawad Manileño 2026 awarding ceremony held on June 18 at the Metropolitan Theater, as part of Manila’s 455th Founding Anniversary celebration themed “Matatag sa Hamon, Pinagtibay ng Panahon.”
Organized by the City Government of Manila, the annual awards recognize individuals, institutions, businesses, and community organizations whose contributions continue to shape a more resilient and progressive capital.
Honoring Service Across Sectors
This year’s awardees reflect a wide range of sectors, united by a shared commitment to public service and community development. Among the individuals recognized were education advocate Dr. Rhodora Angela Fernandez Ferrer, health official Dr. Grace H. Padilla, broadcaster DJ Chacha, fashion designer Patis Tesoro, and Gilas Women’s Basketball player Quinn Kacey Dela Rosa.
Community-focused organizations were also honored, including Universidad de Manila–Bahaghari for promoting inclusivity and youth empowerment, and Barangay 412 in District IV for environmental stewardship and civic engagement.
Government Message: Progress Through People
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso emphasized that Gawad Manileño is more than a recognition program—it is a celebration of citizens and institutions that actively contribute to the city’s development.
He highlighted the importance of civic participation, noting that meaningful progress is achieved not only through government efforts but also through the collective action of engaged and responsible citizens.
Vice Mayor Chi Atienza echoed this sentiment, underscoring the role of taxpayers and private sector partners in supporting city programs and services through responsible contributions.
Recognizing Business and Economic Contributors
The awards also acknowledged major corporate taxpayers and investors that play a significant role in Manila’s economic landscape. These include:
- International Container Terminal Services Inc.
- Asian Terminals Inc.
- Manila North Harbour Port Inc.
- SM Prime Holdings
- Megaworld Corporation
Individual business taxpayers and enterprises such as members of the Yuchengco and Tiongson families, Mintex Industrial Supply, U2 Electrical Contractor, and Meedpharma Medical Supplies & Equipment Distributor were also recognized.
Major employers including Golden Arches Development Corporation, Jollibee Foods Corporation, and Concentrix Philippines were honored for generating employment and supporting economic opportunities for Manila residents.
A Broader Picture of Manila’s Progress
Taken together, the 2026 honorees reflect a city advancing across multiple dimensions—education, healthcare, culture, sports, environmental sustainability, and economic development. The program underscores Manila’s continued emphasis on collaboration between government, business, and communities in driving inclusive growth.
Past recipients of Gawad Manileño include notable figures such as Charo Santos-Concio, Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, and Ramon S. Ang, highlighting the award’s longstanding tradition of recognizing individuals and institutions with lasting impact.
About Gawad Manileño
Gawad Manileño is the City of Manila’s premier recognition program honoring outstanding individuals and organizations for excellence and meaningful contributions to the city’s development. Held annually as part of Manila’s founding anniversary, it celebrates achievements in public service, education, health, culture, media, sports, environmental stewardship, and community development.
The 2026 edition carries the theme “Pagpupugay sa Kahusayan at Paglilingkod,” honoring those who embody service and inspire positive change in the community.
