Mayor Rowena Lopez-Lizares led on Monday, Nov. 24, the launching of Talisay City’s Bravest Award — the first award of its kind dedicated to recognizing extraordinary courage and selfless public service of Talisaynons in Negros Occidental.
It honors frontliners and everyday heroes who stood firm for Talisaynons during emergencies, disasters, and life-threatening situations.
The awarding rites highlights the values of resilience, duty, and unwavering commitment to public service, which are the principles strongly championed by Lizares in her drive for a safer and more resilient Talisay.
Lizares distributed plaques of recognition to Geoffrey Gutierrez, head of the Talisay City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Dr. Joy Gladys Guanzon of the Talisay City Primary Health Care, City Social Welfare and Development Officer Dionela Madrona, Bureau of Fire and Protection-Talisay led by Senior Insp. Joebert Sanao, PLt. Col. Alvin Christopher Baybayan, Talisay City police chief, and Kusina ni Mayor Weng- Community Affairs Office.
Additional special citations were also given to Talisay CDRRMO for their bravery during the collapsed structure search and rescue mission in Bogo City, Cebu.
They were also honored for their bravery during the onslaught of Typhoon Tino and Typhoon Uwan.
During the program, the city government distributed T-shirts for Day Care students in line with National Children’s Month as well as life vests for Bantay Dagat personnel and bulletproof vests for the Talisay Special Weapons and Tactics team.
These initiatives reinforce the city’s ongoing investment in community safety and protection.
The late Rocky Billones was also honored posthumously for his heroism and dedication during Typhoon Uwan.
Lizares lauded the awardees, saying their courage and willingness to run toward danger when others retreat are what make Talisay stronger. ||
