Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte lauded this year’s Datu Bago Awardees for their services, outstanding contribution and dedication stressing that they reflect the Dabawenyo spirit of resilience, hardwork, compassion, and steadfastness.
“Tonight, we bestow this honor to the individuals whose ceaseless dedication and exemplary contributions in the fields of innovation, leadership in education, creative arts, business and accountancy, and visual arts have not only uplifted Davao City, but also made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of countless Dabawenyos,” the mayor said in his message read by Vice Mayor Melchor Quitain Jr. during the 53rd Conferment of the Datu Bago Awards 2025 held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Friday evening.
Five Dabawenyos were conferred as this year’s Datu Bago awardees in time for the celebration of the 88th Araw ng Dabaw.
This year’s distinguished recipients are Luis Alfonso Ybanez Aboitiz (posthumous) for Innovation. Aboitiz pioneered corporate social responsibility initiatives at the Davao Light and Power Company.
Perla Pichon Kwan for Leadership in Education. Kwan pioneered academic excellence as founder of Precious International School of Davao and her contributions to educational literature.
Maria Antoinette Tiukinhoy Pamintuan for Creative Arts. She elevated Davao City’s global presence in the design industry and supporting local artists.
Protacio Tan Tacandong for Business and Finance. Tacandong upholds ethical business practices and fostering financial transparency that strengthened the city’s economic landscape.
Josefina Carriedo-Tionko for Visual Arts. She advocates in nurturing the city’s artistic community through leadership in the Dabawenyo Artists Federation Inc. (DAFI) and initiatives such as the Davao Artfest.
Oscar Ong, special awardee for his unwavering humanitarian service.
“To our outstanding awardees, congratulations. Your various accomplishments as well as your selfless acts of service reflect that of the Dabawenyo spirit – resilient, hardworking, compassionate, and steadfast,” the mayor added.
Duterte also highlighted that the awardees not only excelled in their respective fields but have also given back to the community in meaningful ways, making them truly deserving of this prestigious recognition, and placing them among the distinguished and exemplary individuals who have been given this honor since 1969.
“It is our hope that you continue to serve as pillars of progress, sources of inspiration, and living proofs that greatness is achieved through purpose-driven action. May your dedication ignite the same spirit of service in others and inspire every Dabawenyo to be our partners toward the continued progress of our beloved city,” the mayor said.
This year’s Araw ng Dabaw celebration is anchored on the theme, “88 Years Strong: One Davao”, and according to the mayor, this reminds the people of Davao City of the unity as one Dabawenyo community and of the people whose significant roles and efforts have shaped the city into the vibrant, resilient, and progressive home that they continue to cherish today.
