TACLOBAN CITY – Twelve individuals from Eastern Visayas were honored for their outstanding achievements and contributions to their respective fields during the first-ever Outstanding Eastern Visayans Awards (OEVA) held on July 31, recognizing excellence in public service, education, health, science, media, culture, entrepreneurship, environmental protection, youth leadership, and philanthropy.
The awards, organized by the Department of Tourism in Eastern Visayas (DOT-8) in partnership with Tingog party-list, recognize individuals whose work has created a lasting impact on their communities and the region.
Among this year’s awardees were Stephen Lagarde (arts and cultural heritage), Janet Alexis De los Santos (education and research), Gilbert Trinchera (entrepreneurship and innovation), Margarita dela Cruz (environmental protection and sustainability), Aileen Riel-Espina (health and medicine), Michael Jude Casaljay (media and communication), Norman Sabdao (public service and governance), Ea Kristine Clarisse Tulin-Escuet (science and engineering), Aron Sedrick Caminong (youth leadership and community development), and Aldrin Norio (faith, religion, and philanthropy).
Special awards were presented to Eliseo III Lucero-Prisno as Eastern Visayan Regional Champion and Lydia Escober dela Rosa for the Outstanding Legacy of Excellence Award.
Boy Scout Chris Lorenz Fabian also received special recognition for his heroism during the San Jose National High School shooting incident.
DOT-8 Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Rina Apostol said the awards celebrate Eastern Visayans whose resilience, innovation, and dedication continue to bring honor to the region and inspire future generations.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
