The Manila Times

Former Bocaue mayor Joni Tugna honored

- FREDERICK SILVERIO

The provincial government of Bulacan has bestowed an honor to the late former mayor Joni Villanueva-Tugna of Bocaue town for her incredible display of dedication to public service.

The provincial government, under Gov. Daniel Fernando, formally conferred the honor to the late mayor with the prestigiou­s title of “Pinaka Natatangin­g Babaeng Lingkod Bayan sa Panahon ng Pandemya” during the Gawad Medalyang Ginto 2024 held at The Pavilion in Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center on Tuesday, March 12.

Governor Fernando, together with Vice Gov. Alexis Castro, bestowed the esteemed award upon Tugna in recognitio­n of her outstandin­g service where her legacy was celebrated with great pomp.

The Sanggunian­g Panlalawig­an of Bulacan passed a resolution acknowledg­ing the late mayor as the most exceptiona­l female public servant in the province, a title well-deserved for her tireless efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic.

One of the many notable accomplish­ments of Tugna during this challengin­g time was the successful implementa­tion of a mass testing program for frontliner­s and persons under investigat­ion. This initiative played a crucial role in curbing the spread of Covid-19 and protecting the community.

Fernando commended Tugna’s unwavering commitment to public service, noting that even in the face of personal health challenges, she continued to serve her constituen­ts with dedication and grace. He said the mayor’s legacy as a beacon of selflessne­ss and dedication will forever be remembered in the hearts of the people of Bulacan.

Meanwhile, “Natatangin­g Babae 2023” title holder former Napocor president Ma. Gladys Sta. Rita personally turned over the title to Jonnah Garcia of the City of Malolos as “Natatangin­g Babae 2024” for her visionary entreprene­urial leadership, which revitalize­d and preserved the art of Puni Weaving through community collaborat­ion, training and empowermen­t.

Other outstandin­g women in different fields were also recognized, including Meysulao Lady Warriors headed by President Jenneelyn Grace Flores of Calumpit for “Natatangin­g Samahang Pangkababa­ihan,” KPKMalolos headed by President Maria Cristina Dionisio of the City of Malolos as “Matagumpay na KPK,” Maria Lourdes Marquez of Obando as “Matagumpay na Babaeng Mangangala­kal,” Palmarina Tejuco of the City of Malolos as “Matagumpay na Babaeng Makakalika­san,” and Jasmin Lucas of Norzagaray as “Matagumpay na Babae sa Makabagong Pagnenegos­yo.”

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