Zamboanga's fearless, colorful ex-mayor Climaco to receive Rizal Award

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InterAksyon.com
The online news portal of TV5

MANILA, Philippines – The National Historical Commission of the Philippines will confer the Rizal Award on the late former Zamboanga City Mayor Cesar Cortes Climaco, whose courage  and integrity inspired many.

Awards will also be given to Dr. Paul Arvisu Dumol and the Metrobank Foundation, for nationalism, professional excellence and for promotion of civic competence and integrity.

"All three meet the criteria set for the award, namely: individuals and institution that have encouraged nationalism, professional excellence geared toward community and national development; and promotes civic competence and integrity," said the NHCP statement, issued during the commemoration of the 10th  Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day on Thursday.

The culminating activity of Rizal@150 will take place in his birth place in Calamba, Laguna.

Climaco served as the mayor of Zamboanga City intermittently for 11 years.  Unfazed by the repression during martial law, Climaco championed the rights of many people, fulfilling his duties with utmost integrity, nationalism, and dedicated service. Incorruptible and unflinching against tyranny and injustice, he died committed to the cause of freedom, according to the rationale explaining the basis of the award for the colorful, long-haired feisty mayor, who used to walk down Zamboanga’s streets without security even after taking on lawless elements and forces of the authoritarian Marcos regime.

Dumol, on the other hand, is a renowned playwright, historian, and educator. The life and works of Jose Rizal are an enduring inspiration to him as he helps develop the intellect of his students, encourages artistic excellence among younger writers, directors, and the thespian interpreting his lays, and promotes civic duty through the themes of his works, said the  NHCP.

The Metrobank Foundation has for decades promoted excellence and public service through is various programs and advocacies, such as the Metrobank Art & design Excellence (MADE) National competition, the Metrobank Search for Outstanding Teachers and the Metrobank National Scholarship program. According to NHCP, these programs have recognized the excellence of Filipinos and their contributions to the country.

The awarding rites will take place on June 19, 2012 at the Rizal Shrine in Calamba City, Laguna. 

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