Iloilo city: Iloilo City on Monday unveiled the ‘Atipan’ (Care) Center in three districts and will honor exemplary Ilonggos to mark its 88th year as a chartered city. Mayor Raisa Tre±as led the launch of the center in Jaro, Molo, and Arevalo districts, benefitting 745 recipients for services, including free haircuts, financial assistance, livelihood skills training, social services, burial assistance, livelihood and educational assistance, health and dental services, and civil registry.

According to Philippines News Agency, this year’s Charter Day is anchored on the principle that the celebration must be for all Ilonggos, in every corner of the city, and at every level of society. Mayor Tre±as emphasized that the Atipan Centers in Jaro, Arevalo, and Molo will serve as district hubs, bringing essential services closer to the people. The celebration’s theme, ‘Celebrating 88 Years of Resilient Innovations for Sustainable Empowerment,’ captures the spirit of Ilonggos who are resilient in times of challenge, innovative in their pursuit of progress, and united in building a city that empowers every generation.

Mayor Tre±as highlighted the growth of the city over the decades, noting not only its commercial and infrastructural development but also the increasing strength, capacity, and character of its people. As the first elected woman mayor, she expressed her honor, humility, and deep sense of responsibility in serving the community.

During the Mayor’s Ball, the city government will honor 10 Outstanding Ilonggos who excelled in their respective fields: Nick Deocampo, Engr. Fulbert Woo, Ernesto Borromeo Jr., Dr. Joselito Villaruz, Brian Gil Sarinas, Winston Conrad Padojinog, Dante Aguilar, Anjuli May Jaen, Ramonito Silva, and Ralph Lauren Figueroa. The Diamond Achievement Award will be conferred on Samuel Po, Ma. Beatriz Tesoro, and Felipe Uygongco for their significant, lasting contributions in their respective fields.

Nene Chan, and Mary Lou and Luisa Segovia will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their dedication, passion, and commitment that have advanced their disciplines and served as an enduring source of inspiration for others. Posthumously, Magdalena Gonzaga Jalandoni, a legendary Hiligaynon literary figure, and Gilopez Kabayao, the country’s foremost violin virtuoso, will be honored for their outstanding contributions to arts and culture.