Baguio fetes outstanding citizens, sportsmen

RAIN failed to dampen the spirits of Baguio residents in celebration of its 108 Charter Day Anniversary sans the street parade at the city's main thoroughfares.

Mayor Mauricio Domogan noted the continuous development of Baguio through the years which eventually became a center of education in the north and tourism destination.

Domogan said the city's improved competitiveness proved that it is continually moving towards excellence in various fields which is highlighted in this year's Baguio Day chosen theme, "Baguio at 108: Land of Champions."

"This shows that not only did we produce a lot of champions in various fields nationally and even internationally but we also did well in the aspects of governance and infrastructure and economic development," the mayor said.

This year's Outstanding Citizen of Baguio awardees include Doctor Joanne Balderas, who was awarded in the field of community service for her unwavering commitment in voluntary involvement in institutional services. She is an ophthalmologist, professor, active social civic organization member and leader, and an environmentalist.

Physician Dionisio Claridad, Jr. contributes his time using his service in the community is his forte a top with his positive attitude, excellent work ethics and professionalism with the true intention of serving his fellow men for the art and science of medicine. He has launched the Rotary Club-assisted "End Polio" Program, an active advocate of mental health programs in Baguio and Benguet.

Retired general Ben-

jamin Magalong, from the Philippine National Police was also awarded in the field of public service and was represented by his daughter Atty. Kristina Louise Magalong.

Ms. International 2016 Kylie Versoza was also honored by the city during the simple Baguio day rites at the Baguio Convention Center.

Three Centenarians namely Sixta Fabian of Padre Burgos, Leonila Abreu of Lower QM and Gabriel Abellada of South Central, Aurora Hill were also feted by the city led by Domogan together with Vice Mayor Edison Bilog, and Councilor Elmer Datuin.

Part of the Baguio day celebration is the awarding of plaques to the 20 Cleanest and Greenest Barangays in the city.

Green Water Village topped the contest while SLU/SVP and Hillside placed second and third respectively. Lauren Alimondo

Photo by Lauren Alimondo CITY CHAMPIONS. Recepients of 2017 Outstanding Citizens of Baguio Joanne Balderas, Dionisio Claridad Jr., and Atty. Kristina Louise Magalong representing her father Gen. Benjamin Magalong joins city officials headed by Mayor Mauricio Domogan and Vice...