CITY OF MALOLOS — The former Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Susana “Toots” Ople was hailed as Natatanging Dangal ng Lipi, the highest award to be given to a Bulakenyo, during the Gawad Dangal ng Lipi 2023 held at Hiyas Pavilion in Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center, Provincial Capitol Compound here.
The award was received by her daughter Estelle O. Osorio on Wednesday night (Sept. 13) in recognition of her mother’s legacy of compassionate service and unwavering support that she willingly provided throughout her lifetime.
During Osorio’s message, she expressed her family’s gratitude to the Provincial Government of Bulacan’s recognition of her late mother.
“Sobrang laking karangalan po para sa aming pamilya ang parangal na ito. Sana she was here to witness this and receive the award herself. Siyempre, gustuhin sana natin na nalaman niya habang buhay siya na pinaparangalan siya nang ganito pero pakiramdam ko, masaya ‘yung kaluluwa niya in heaven dahil napakalaking karangalan na mapili sa lahat ng nabigyan ng award at siya ‘yung napili,” Osorio said.
Other awardees include Dr. Hermogenes M. Paguia of San Ildefonso, (Agriculture); Dr. Maria Natalia R. Dimaano of Obando (Science and Technology); Dr. Marwin M. dela Cruz of Calumpit and Dr. Jaime P. Pulumbarit of Malolos (Education); Dr. Benigno C. Valdez of San Ildefonso (Bulakenyo Expatriate); Dr. Bernardita C. Navarro of Pulilan (Health); Angelica “Angie” C. Ferro of San Jose Del Monte (Arts and Culture); Tristaniel D. Las Marias of Baliwag (Trade and Industry); Ronnie M. Mendoza of Marilao (Entrepreneur); Fr. Domingo M. Salonga of Bulakan (Community Service); Judge Maria Bernardita J. Santos of Baliwag (Professional); Yuka Saso of San Ildefonso (Sports) and Justice Lorifel L. Pahimna of Hagonoy (Public Service).
Meanwhile, Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro recognized the hard work and dedication of this year’s Dangal ng Lipi awardees.
“Sa gabing ito ay bibigyan natin ng saysay ang mga tagumpay ng ating mga paparangalan, tagumpay na kanilang natamo na ang tanging puhunan ay pawis, sakripisyo, misyon, pangarap at dedikasyon upang maiangat hindi lamang ang kanilang sarili kundi ang kapakanan ng kanilang kapwa Bulakenyo,” Castro said. (UnliNews Online)
