Manila: As part of its 78th Charter Day celebration, this city on Monday night recognized 44 outstanding small businesses based on consumer choice, highlighting local excellence in food, services, and retail. Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez, who led the awarding ceremony at the Ormoc City Stage, emphasized the importance of showcasing homegrown businesses that have earned the trust and loyalty of residents and visitors alike.

According to Philippines News Agency, of the 44 awardees, 27 were recognized in the restaurant category; 10 were in the services category, including accommodations, salons, and catering; seven were honored in the retail sector category. A crowd favorite during the ceremony was the unique “11 Feelings” category, which recognized businesses based on how they connect with customers’ emotions and experiences. Categories included breakup song, breakup food, comfort food, date food, date place, favorite dessert, hangover recovery food, happy birthday cake, happy food, heartbreak food, and make-up food.

Beyond consumer favorites, the city also honored five enterprises and two individuals for their innovative contributions to local business. Among them was Froilan Celeste, named Entrepreneur of the Year and owner of Yoyi’s Cakes and Pastries, a family-run business founded in 1996 that has since expanded to six branches across Leyte and Southern Leyte.

The event marked not just a celebration of Ormoc’s charter, but also a tribute to the resilience, creativity, and heart of its small business community.