Seven commendable Ilonggos received the Golden Salakot Award and be bequeathed with lifetime membership in the Hubon ni Marikudo (Order of Marikudo), an exclusive league of entities or individuals who helped Iloilo City to reach its vision as a premier city in southern Philippines.
City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog lead the award rites earlier tonight, August 25, Saturday, to highlight the celebration of the city’s Charter Day and 75th Diamond Jubilee anniversary.
The Golden Salakot Award is the highest honor given by the city government for individuals or institutions for outstanding achievements and untiring efforts to help the city attain premier city status.
The Ilonggo awardees are singer-composer Jose Mari Chan, Senator Franklin M. Drilon, media and business mogul Rogelio Florete Sr., businessman Edgar Sia of Mang Inasal fame, hotelier Felicito Tiu, contractor-philanthropist Jose “Pepe” Layson and incumbent city councilor Perla S. Zulueta.
The city government has cited the significant and invaluable contributions of the awardees which ensured the continuing progress and development of Iloilo City and advancement of the welfare of its people.
Mabilog said the legend of the Barter of Panay in 1200 AD and the Golden Salakot as a heritage tender remind all Ilonggos of the significance of a rich cultural heritage. Those who carry the legendary salakot exemplify authority, success, wisdom, strength and pride of a modern day Ilonggo hero.
