CHICAGO FILIPINO AMERICAN HALL OF FAME 2011

The annual Chicago Filipino American Hall of Fame project (now on its 16th year of celebration) is a very prestigious awards ceremony in the Filipino American community of Chicago and the Midwest. It recognizes outstanding individuals for demonstrating uncommon, innovative, and civic responsibility, and who have excelled and achieved so much for the encouragement and betterment of the Filipino/Filipino American community.

It is an inspiring project that highlights the best in the Filipino and Filipino-Americans --- a joint effort of the 20-year-old Chicago Philippine Reports TV and the 25-year-old VIA Times Newsmagazine -- an outstanding annual community event that benefits a locally produced (and original) television show in Chicago, the Chicago Philippine Reports TV?(CPRTV). This event's other charitable recipients have included the TAHANAN Philippine Museum, the Bantay Bata Foundation, the Knowledge Channel, the University of the Philippines Centennial Committee, and the Pilipino American Social Service (PASS).

It honors high-achieving Filipinos/Filipino Americans & Friends, focusing on their achievements in their own field of interest or profession, and in their abilities and capabilities to promote the positive image of the Filipino not only in Chicago, but also in the entire United States of America, the Philippines, and throughout the world.

For this gala event, it awards symbolic crystal hall of fame trophies to its deserving recipients at a black-tie dinner-dance event being held at five-star hotels in Chicago every year. Attendance numbers about 700 to 1,000 annually, composed mostly of community and civic leaders and celebrities from Chicago and abroad.

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RECIPIENTS OF THE 17TH ANNUAL CHICAGO FILIPINO AMERICAN HALL OF FAME 2010

HELD APRIL 2011 AT HYATT REGENCY HOTEL CHICAGO DOWNTOWN

SPONSORED BY :

VIA TIMES NEWSMAGAZINE & CHICAGO PHILIPPINE REPORTS TV (CPRTV)

HONORIO BENZON, M.D. (Excellence in Medicine-Education)

Honorio T. Benzon, MD was born in a Pussuac, Santo Domingo, Ilocos Sur. He attended Far Eastern University for his premedical and medical school studies. His internship and a year of surgical residency was at St. Luke’s Hospital in Quezon City. At FEU, he distinguished himself in academic, political, and literary arenas. He was an academic scholar, and was elected to several positions culminating in the speakership of the medical student council. He was the editor-in-chief, of the Medical Student, the news magazine of the medical school. At St. Luke’s Hospital, he was chosen as the Most Outstanding Intern of his class.

His internship was at Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey and his anesthesiology residency was at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He has been affiliated with Northwestern since 1976 except in 1985 to 1986 when he took research sabbatical in neurophysiology at the Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston and Harvard Medical School. He went back to Boston in 2003 when he took a leadership course at the Harvard School of Public Health. At Northwestern, he rose through the ranks, from an Instructor to a full Professor. Presently, he is a Professor of Anesthesiology and a Senior Associate Chair for Academic Affairs. He was the chief of the Division of Pain Medicine from 1990 to 2010. He started the fellowship program in pain medicine at Northwestern and was the fellowship director from 1994 to 2006. He was involved in numerous committees of the medical school and the hospital and held leadership positions including the co-chairmanship of the Admissions Committee. He won the Golden Apple Award in 1994, an award given by the residents to the faculty in recognition of their educational contributions. He was recognized by the medical school when he was chosen to receive the Dean’s 2003 Award for Teaching Excellence.

Dr. Benzon has done research studies in pain medicine, regional anesthesia, and anesthesiology. He has published 55 original articles, 85 book chapters, and 75 abstracts. Several of his abstracts won awards as the Best Abstract of the meeting. Some of his original articles have been editorialized emphasizing its importance. He has edited three books and is the Chief Editor of the book Essentials of Pain Medicine and Regional Anesthesia, now in its third edition, and the book Raj’s Practical Management of Pain, now in its fifth edition. His essentials book is the recommended reading book for residents rotating through pain medicine and those reviewing for the pain medicine and anesthesiology boards. He is a Section Editor (pain medicine) of the journal Current Opinion in Anesthesiology, an Editor of the journals Anesthesia and Analgesia and Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, an Associate Editor of Pain Practice, and a member of the editorial board of The Clinical Journal of Pain. He has given 225 lectures at annual meetings here in the U.S., Asia (Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Bangalore), Europe (London, Rome), and the Middle East (Abu Dhabi, Dubai). He is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Society of Regional Anesthesia (ASRA). ASRA recognized his contributions to the subspecialty by recognizing him as the recipient of their 2010 Distinguish Service Award. He is included in the America’s Top Doctors, Best Doctors in America, Best Doctors in Chicago by the Chicago magazine, Who’s Who in America, and Who’s Who in the World.

Dr. Benzon married his childhood sweetheart, Julieta Papal-latoc. They have two children, Hazel and Hubert, and a granddaughter, Annalisa. Hazel is married to Mr. Paul Manzano.


ROEL CAMPOS (Community Leadership)

Roel Fortich Campos is the Information Technology Network Administrator at Kuder Incorported in Adel, Iowa.

Kuder, Inc. is the leading provider of Internet-based tools and resources which assists students and adults achieve their educational and career planning goals. Prior to joining Kuder, he was the Projects Administrator at the Iowa Legislative Computer Bureau in Des Moines, Iowa and was highly responsible for the computerization in its beginnings in the Iowa State Legislature.

Roel hails from Dasmarinas, Cavite. He completed his degree in Agricultural Business in 1978 from the University of the Philippines in Los Banos, Laguna.  He migrated to USA in 1979 and he completed his Masters in Agricultural Economics in Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas. While working part time for the Small Business Development Center at Drake University, he completed his Masters in Business Administration with focus on Information Systems. 

He married Malou Guieb in 1986 and they have 3 sons together. He is proud to say that their oldest son is a college graduate and works for WellsFargo while  their other 2 sons are currently college students.

As an active volunteer and community leader, he has been passionate in organizing and promoting Filipino culture which began from the time he was a student at KSU and Iowa State University. He was the editor of their Filipino student body newsletter called Kampanilya. He was President of the Filipino-American Association of Iowa (FAAI) for two terms, and worked tirelessly to promote culture, tradition, educational scholarships and youth activities. During his term he chaired and led the Philippines’ 100th Anniversary of Philippine Independence ,Centennial Celebration “Kalayaan, Kayamanan ng Bayan,” held in June, 1998. This event was held at the Des Moines Botanical Center, Iowa and it showcased Philippine history, talent, food and culture.  

He also chaired and coordinated the performance of the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus, “Himig Ng Bayan” concert hosted by the Filipino American Association of Iowa in 2002.  Roel was instrumental in organizing the 30th Anniversary of the Filipino American Association of Iowa, highlighting its leaders and their accomplishments throughout the years since its inception in 1978.


In 2007 he again chaired  a joint project with the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and the Filipino American Association of Iowa hosting the “University of the Philippines Madrigal Concert”.

Currently, Roel is the Iowa state chair of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA). He volunteered in various cities of Iowa promoting NaFFAA’s goals which is to unify and collaborate with all Filipino-American organizations throughout the United States which ultimately protects our rights and privileges as citizens of this country. NaFFAA promotes Philippine culture and continues to encourage our kababayans to support and work together, living in harmony with the slogan “Sa Pagkakaisa Ay May Kalakasan” (In Unity There is Strength) to prove our Bayanihan spirit.

With the influx of more Filipinos in the state of Iowa, the community recognized the need for a mentor, adviser and training from a leader with considerable amount of experience and once again, he was elected to serve as the current Vice President for the FAAI in Des Moines, Iowa. Working with the younger generation is in his agenda as he works with the new leadership in moving the organization to the challenges and undertakings of an ever growing Filipino American community in Iowa.

In the Iowa community, Roel has networked with other diverse cultures to foster unification of all Asian groups. He recognized the need to work with other Asian communities respecting its diversity who have a lot to offer and contribute in the business and cultural aspect within the community. He currently serves as one of the Board of Directors of the Iowa Asian Alliance (IAA). He was one of the founders of this organization when it was officially formalized in 2002. On its 9th year, the Iowa Asian Alliance holds annually one of the largest festival called CelebrAsian, which is attended by Iowa and its neighboring towns, cities, and states as it continues to promote all Asian diverse culture and businesses. Roel also serves as a volunteer and member of the Greater Des Moines Partnership Diversity Committee for the last three years as he welcomes and collaborates with various business community based events that have benefited all races and people of all walks of life.





JAMES CLELAND (Friend of the Filipino)

James gives tours of Chicago area architectural masterpieces to area high school students and maintains membership in the Society of Architectural Historians. He is married to wife Natividad, a Registered Nurse specializing in Telemetry at Advocate Illinois  Masonic Hospitalwhose childhood parish was St. Paul the Apostle Church, in San Pablo, Philippines, the subject of his first book. He has two sons, Scott, an Information Technology Engineer for Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago and Craig, a Structural Engineering student at the University of Illinois, Urbana/Champaign.


James visited the Philippines in 2006 to study the San Pablo Church as well as to conduct research and interviews for his book, The Silent Sentinel. This book received the Pinnacle Award for Achievement in History in 2010 from North American Bookdealers Exchange and is being considered for review by the Society of Architectural Historians. The book has received numerous favorable critiques from academicians, liturgical experts and military historians, especially Sgt. Tony Meldahl, U.S. Army, Retired, military historian for the late Iris Chang, author of The Rape of Nanking. Close cooperation between the government of the Philippines, the University of Santo Tomas and its archivists as well as the professors and students of Isabela State University has produced a book uniquely situated to depict the epic story of the Philippines, from Spanish colonization, through the Revolution from Spain up to World War II and finally to freedom as a sovereign nation--all told through the experiences of a community of believers who share a stone-and adobe church built at the dawn of the eighteenth century.


This book is hopefully the start to a comprehensive study of the beautiful legacy provided by the Spanish Colonial churches in the Philippines as well as a blueprint for saving these treasures much as historic churches are preserved in Europe and North and South America. In the words of His Eminence, Joseph Nacua, Bishop of Illagan and Isabela, "I have finished reading it and appreciated the interest and the enthusiasm for preserving such a monument. I know its value because I have also lived in Europe and in Spain and in Italy and saw their concern for preservation of historical structures."



LYNN FUNKHOUSER (Friend of the Filipino)

Lynn Funkhouser is an internationally published photographer, author, lecturer, environmentalist, world adventuress, and leader in Philippine dive travel. She is an ardent proponent, eloquent spokesperson, and effective catalyst for protection of the aquatic environment.

As a consummate photographer and environmental advocate, Lynn’s images in magazines, books, calendars and advertisements make clear her commitment of protecting the natural world.  Audubon, Animals, Action Asia, International Wildlife, Time, Newsweek, and National Geographic Publications are but a few of the influential venues in which Lynn’s dramatic photos appear, usually featured in articles covering environmental issues. Still, Lynn isn’t satisfied with simply making visual statements: her fearless documentation of destructive fishing practices, creation of an international environmental entity -the International Marinelife Alliance- to certify sustainable fishing practices, and her dynamic presentations make clear her determination to transform commitment and artistry into results

Lynn has been diving & photographing in the Philippines 2 months a year, every year, since 1976. Having dived over 260 islands, she has become an expert on diving in the Philippines and often works with the Philippine Dept. of Tourism to promote diving. Her photos are used in their booths at many of the dive conferences and she does presentations on the Philippines at venues throughout the world.

John G. Shedd Aquarium of Chicago put Lynn’s Philippines knowledge to extensive use, contracting her as a special consultant for their spectacular Wild Reef exhibit, a $49 million, permanent exhibit on Apo Island in the Philippines. Starting in 1995, and over the course of eight years, Lynn participated in planning sessions, and guided Shedd staff on research trips to the Philippines, in preparation for the exhibit.  Many photos featured throughout the exhibit are hers. In addition, her photos were used to model the exhibit’s astonishingly realistic looking synthetic corals, including 26 species that had never before been replicated.  Opened in 2003, the project occupies a 1500 sq. ft. addition, showcasing the Apo Island Marine Reserve, distinguished as being one of the best-run community organized marine sanctuaries in the world.

Lynn was inducted into the inaugural Women Divers Hall of Fame, 2000, which includes pioneers, leaders, innovators and world record holders in the international diving community. In 2008 she was inducted into the Society of Woman Geographers. SWG members are women who love adventure and have made significant contributions to the world’s knowledge. Records of each member’s professional and personal accomplishments are available through the Library of Congress, available to scholars worldwide. Fellow honorees include Amelia Earhart, Eugenie Clark, Sylvia Earle, Jane Goodall, Margaret Mead, and Pearl Buck.

Other awards include: Lifetime Achievement Award, Philippine Aquatic and Marinelife Conservationist’s Assn., Inc., 1986, for “outstanding contributions on behalf of conservation and preservation of the marine environment of the Philippines”; Environmental Awareness Award, SeaSpace/PADI, 1994, for recognition of outstanding effort in the cause of marine conservation & education “for her continuing efforts promoting reef preservation in the Philippines and around the world”; Ambassador of Good Will, Illinois Council of Skin and Scuba Diving, 2006, specifically created to honor Lynn’s support of local dive clubs and advocacy of reef protection around the world; Platinum Pro Plus 5000 Diver, SCUBA Schools International, 1993, honoring the dedication and commitment of diving’s pioneers and industry-makers, the award recognized Lynn’s 2500 dives on induction since her first dive in 1967, and Lynn’s significant contributions to the recreational diving community. She now has over 5400 dives, over 3000 of which were made on Philippine reefs. She has also received the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame, Napoleon Area Schools, 2009, and Accomplished Graduate Award, Bowling Green State University, 2008.

As an environmentalist, Lynn is committed to making a difference on this planet through her images and presentations. One of Lynn’s greatest joys is showing Filipinos their country’s extraordinary treasures and making them proud. She especially appreciates the wonderful hospitality of all the Filipino people she has encountered in her adventures!




VALLAPA KONGSRI (Outstanding Asian American-Thailand)


VALLAPA KONGSRI is president of Thai American Association of Illinois.  She graduated as a nurse from Bangkok, Thailand and moved to the United States in 1977 to begin her career. She began her career as an ER nurse at Englewood hospital in Chicago, Illinois. In 1981, she held the position as nurse Manager of the Emergency Department.  She was certified a trauma nurse specialist (TNS ), certified emergency Nurse (CEN), CPR instructor, and ACLS provider. Currently, she is a clinical nurse in the critical care unit (CCU).

Vallapa has been recognized for her humanitarian leadership roles and contributions to health care for the community .In 2000 and in 2003, she joined the medical mission of the Thai Physicians Association of America to provide medical care for those less fortunate in rural areas of Thailand. She has been involved in annual Health Fair in Thai community and in various activities in both the Thai and Asian American communities and has been nominated to receive many appreciation and recognition awards from the following organizations:


 In 1999  -  Appreciation  for Contribution and Dedication Award from TNAI

In 2001  -  Recognition and Appreciation for Dedicated Services Award from TAAI

In 2002  -  Outstanding Devotion and Dedicated Services Award from the Thai Buddhist  Temple in Chicago, IL.

In 2005 -   Nurse of the year  

In 2005 -   Appreciation Award from the Thai American Association of Illinois

In 2010 -   Community Service Award from Asian American Coalition of Chicago

Vallapa‘s involvement in leadership roles has  been the following:

In 2001,- she served as vice president of Thai Community Association of Illinois, and
Also has served on the Advisory Council of Secretary of State.In 2002 -2005 she was elected Vice President of Thai American Association of Illinois.

In 2003 -2005 she served as a chairperson of beauty pageant Thai Songkarn festival.

In 2006 -2007 member of Board of Directors of the Thai Association of Illinois.

In 2007 -chair person of a fund  raising education fund for student at northeastern in Thailand.

In 2008 -  President of of Thai Association of Illinois,  member of Board Directors of Thai Nurses

Association of Illinois, and  chairperson of Talent Night to support the activities and the program of next generation.

And this year, she founded the Thai Community Service Center in hopes to provide services to Thai Community and the surrounding areas.

In 2009 -  Chair person for the Thai Festival of Chicago, Illinois.

In 2009-2011 she served on the Advisory Council of Thai New Year Festival Corp.  Los Angeles, California, and as a chairperson for the TAAI Annual Gala Dinner and the King’s Birthday Celebration 
Her ongoing involvement, dedication and commitment include serving on the committees for the Asian American Coalition of Chicago Celebration,  and as a chairperson for Asian Festival of Chicago on May 16-20,  2011 at Daley Plaza Center for the celebration of Asian Pacific Heritage Month.




SALLY HUNTER (Human Spirit)

This Human Spirit awardee has demonstrated a commitment to help and promote the welfare of the Filipino people by providing education, food and clothing distribution, and medical care/ She routinely invests significant time, effort and professional expertise in saving the less fortunate of her nativeland.

Sally also does a terrific job capturing both the natural beauty amd crushing the poverty of the Philippines.  Her life illuminates on a high artistic manner the characters of what it means to be human: generosity, kindness,  mercy, compassion, fortitude and honor.  Her goal in life is to create an atmosphere that would move and inspire people. Her spirit, drive, compassion, and dedication to serving people in the Philippines is likewise extended here in her adopted country.

Sally was born in San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija, Philippines on January 30, 1967. She finished her bachelor of science in Nursing at Good Samaritan College of Nursing, and Computer Programming at Wesleyan University in the Philippines.

Very young, hardworking, and a dedicated worker, she has spent 18 years of her life in the Home Health industry, currently serving as the administrator of CompMED Home Health, Inc.  Her administrative duties include: providing leadership in the development of strategic, long-range plans for the company; maintaining and assuring compliance with the State. Federal, and Local Laws; identifying and implementing the organizational structure of the company; planning and organizing, and directing the agency’s ongoing functions; providing direction in formulating the agency’s programs and policies; managing financial resources according to budget and revenue projections; reporting progress and making recommendations to the governing body for future growth of all home health services and products, participating in establishing and maintaining public relations and marketing programs that increase the public’s understanding of home care with other members of the health care community, and contributing to the agency’s growth; ensuring the completion, maintenance, and submission of such reports and records as required by the Department; and the authority for the management of the business affairs and overall operations of the agency.

Sally’s generous giving-back in the Philippines is endless, and through the S-Hunter Foundation (which she founded in 2003), she has been providing free education, food distribution, yearly dental, vision and medical missions in her hometown.
Through S-Hunter Foundation, she funded building two school building in San Lorenzo Poblacion in San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija;  helped build a Methodist Church for Riles, San Leonardo; helped build a children’s playground and a basketball court for the community of Mallorca, San Leonardo; a kindergarten school in Mallorca, a deep well water for Riles, a school canteen for Nueva Ecija Elementary School in Nieves, a community plaza in Mallorca.

Her awards and recognitions for her generosity, charitable, and human-loving characters were recognized in awards ceremonies in 2007, 20089 and 2010 by her townsfolks and community leaders.
Deserving of Human Spirit award for the 2011 Chicago Filipino American Hall of Fame, a dedicated wife and mother, Sally is married to Andre Alan Hunter, JD, MPH, with two children, Andre Hunter, Jr., 16, and Joi Rufina, 10.  The Hunter’s are residents of Skokie, IL. 


CENON MORALES (Sports-Bowling)

More than an expert at his sport, Cenon Morales is a leader, a teacher and an inspiration to everyone he encounters. With his kind heart and equally warm spirit, Cenon is highly respected by the Filipino –American community for his dedication to civic causes and contribution to the Filipino-American community as a whole.

Born on December 20, 1969, in Panhulan Agoncillo, Batangas Phillipines, Cenon’s first interest in sports was not bowling. In fact, Cenon was not the sports aficionado like he is today. His focus was always succeeding in school and helping his family. It was when he came to the United States, specifically Chicago, when he began to develop a liking for sports.

In 1995, Cenon was introduced to the sport of bowling. He noticed that Filipinos had a great love for the sport; he enjoyed the camaraderie and fellowship that the game of bowling represented. In fact, bowling was going to be a game that Cenon was going to learn and play for fun. Little did he know that in a few years this novice bowler was going to become one of the most accomplished Filipino bowlers to have played the sport of bowling.

To date, Cenon has bowled 14 perfect 300-games and has achieved 4 800-series games. He is a member of the NABI (National AmateurBowlers) association and participated in the Amateur Bowlers Tour.

For those of you who are not familiar with bowling, a 300 game is an achievement that even bowlers who have played the game for decades are not able to achieve, let alone 14. The art of bowling is more than just a bowling ball and 10 pins; it takes precision, accuracy and patience. Much of Cenon’s success in the sport is just that; he maintains aura of being calm, cool and collected.

Aside from being a great bowler, Cenon has helped the Filipino-American community by participating and volunteering in community service. Every year Cenon helps organize bowling tournaments to raise funds for PIWC (Philippine Indepence Week Committee), the Chicago Filipino American Lions Club and Autism Awareness, where funds are sent to help Filipino families with children who have Autism.

Cenon is indeed a prized, well-regarded and esteemed individual of the Filipino-American community who is admired by generations of past, present and future bowlers.

Cenon would like to thank his friends and Via Times/CPRTV tandem media for this great recognition. He would like to share and dedicate this recognition to his beloved bowling mentors and friends, Bob Crescini, Jun Suzara, and Dave Fukomori, who introduced and coached him to be a prominent figure in the sport of bowling.



FLORENCE NICOL (Altruisim & Innovation in Healthcare Technology)

Florence M. Nicol is the CEO of NewTech Care Systems, LLC, dba Spark Technologies, and creator of the Genie Home Health software system. She and her husband, Bill established NewTech Care Systems in 1997. Currently, there are several hundred home health agencies all over the United States using their Genie system. She attributes her success to three things: an excellent product; unparalleled customer service; and giving back to those less fortunate, coupled with strong faith and devotion to the Lord.

Flo jokingly refers to herself as “FBI (Full Blooded Ilocana).” She was born in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, on May 18, 1949. She has two brothers, four sons, and thirteen grandchildren. Raised in the slums of Manila, Flo was inspired by the poverty around her to strive to be the best of what she can be. After graduating from Mapa High School, she qualified for – and maintained – a full scholarship at Manuel L. Quezon University where she acquired her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education.

How did a school teacher end up becoming a successful healthcare technology entrepreneur? Here is what she told us: “When we migrated to the United States in 1981, I was certified by the state of Hawaii to teach. However, the permissive culture in the U.S.A. is so different from the Filipino culture, where good discipline inside the classroom is mandatory, respect for the teacher is a given, and learning is enforced. So instead of teaching, I took my chances in exploring other fields of vocation.

“In 1981, I already knew that computers and automation would be an integral part of everyday life, so I decided to be part of the action. I had no computer background, so I bought a book on Cobol (a computer language), and studied it for two weeks. Then I applied for an entry-level programming position with EDS, a company owned by Ross Perot. After an intensive two-hour-long interview, I was hired, and that opened the door for me to the world of Information Technology. As I progressed in my career as a software designer for the next 20+ years, I gained well-rounded experience in the health care industry as a Programmer, Systems Analyst, Software Designer, and, eventually, as a Project Manager for Family Health Plan (FHP), a billion-dollar HMO based in California; Data Warehouse Project Manager for a million-dollar merger for medical billing; IT Director for Behavioral Health; and Decision Support Manager for pharmacology and drug data.

“Later, for the home health industry, I created Genie, a software masterpiece that embodies all the best practices of software design that I’ve learned throughout the years. This is where I differ from my competitors. As the founder of Spark Technologies, I designed every aspect of this software that is now helping hundreds of home health agency owners streamline their operations, increase productivity with less resource, increase reimbursements through tight edits and intelligent system feedback, and enforce compliance with government mandates that affect the industry. Genie has a Clinical Pathway for every case-mix ICD9 groups that teaches nurses how to customize patient care. With the push of a button, Genie does a comprehensive drug regimen for each patient, highlighting drugs that are high-alert, pointing out duplicates, and drugs that have adverse interactions with each other. Since the reimbursement for home health is now data-driven by the OASIS answers, Genie analyzes the OASIS answers not only for consistency, but also how the response is relevant in relation to the patient’s medications and diagnosis, most especially its sequencing.”

Spark Technologies is in the business of helping its clients prosper and supporting start-up agencies by letting them use Genie at no cost until they receive Medicare certification.
Flo is happy to support benevolent organizations that take care of people in need. Recently, she pledged on-going support for Pilipino American Social Services (PASS) in honor of one of the Awardees, Ms. Judy Agno. Her ultimate goal is to establish an orphanage in the Philippines and also help juveniles who have no place to go once they are released from rehabilitation facilities.
Although she works long hours, she finds time for activities that she loves: watching her Lakers, Angels, and Raiders teams; drawing and painting portraits and figures using different media; reading biographies like Elvis Presley’s life and career; reading thriller novels by authors such as Robert Ludlum and Dan Brown; entertaining her clients with magic tricks and jokes during conferences; and traveling the world. She travels to the Philippines several times each year. Her advice to people who are married to their jobs: “Balance your life by spending time with your loved ones and find time for things that you love to do other than work.”




FLORENCE PALMAIRA (Excellence in Nursing)

Florence Udarbe Munar is the oldest daughter of Honesto Gonzales Munar and Nellie Udarbe Munar, both teachers from San Fernando La Union, Philippines. Ever since she had known that she was named after Florence Nightingale, the Crimean War nurse heroine, she had fixed ambition to be a nurse.

She graduated in 1962 from Philippine Christian University – Mary Johnston College of Nursing. She passed the Nurses board examination in the same year without attending review classes. After a year of nursing experience in Mary Johnston Hospital, Tondo, Manila, Philippines, she was accepted for a two-year Exchange Nurses Program in Cook County Children’s Hospital, Chicago, Illinois.  She was in a group of more than 30 nurses from different hospitals in the Philippines trained for specialty in Pediatric Nursing.

After a year as an exchange nurse, she was the first to be promoted as an in-service instructor (acting Head Nurse) for the exchange nurses, regular staff, LPNs, and attendants. Aside from the orientation of auxiliary workers and volunteers, she also orientated and followed-up the Pre-Med and Pre-Dental students who worked as nurse technicians during their vacation from the school classes.

Even in her busy time as an in-service instructor under Mrs. Ethyl Gargantiel, her direct nurse supervisor, and Mrs. Dorothy Coates, Pediatric Nursing Director, she had participated in many social and professional nursing affairs. During that time, the Nightingale’s Club was changed to the Filipino Nurses Association, with Fortune Tam (now Mrs. Kennedy) as president and Florence as vice-president.

When her American foster parent, Genevieve Lusha, asked her to form a group to present traditional Filipino dances, folk songs, and a fashion show for the American seniors where she was the Admitting Director, Florence immediately started the formation of the Filipino Cultural and Heritage Group rendition.

In 1968, Florence returned to the United States with her husband, the late Agnesio C. Palmaira, and their 18-month-old son, Michael, after she went back to the Philippines briefly.  Being an active student in the Philippines, her husband helped in several Filipino newspapers and organizations in Chicago. Both husband and wife became active members of Dr. Wesley Tabayoyong choral group.

In 1974, the Palmaira family, now with two children, 5-year-old Michael and 9-month-old Helen, moved to Bolingbrook, Illinois, where her husband, Nick formed a Filipino-American organization in the Chicago suburbs, the Filipino Friendship Society in Bolingbrook, Illinois. Nick, being the founder, was the first elected President of the club. After 36 years of existence of the club, Florence was elected as the current President of the Filipino Friendship Society (FFS), currently undergoing her second term of office. The FFS has been actively participating  in civic, cultural, religious, and charitable activities of Filipino-Americans in the United States and Philippines. For these activities, they received several awards and recognitions.

On September 12, 2010, the FFS participated in the Bolingbrook Annual Pathways Parade winning First Prize Trophy in the Commercial Category of floats. During their 35th Gala Celebration and Induction of Officers, they were honored to have Illinois State Senator, Mr. Arthur A.J. Wilhelmi as their Guest of Honor.

In 2000, she was offered by Mrs. Crispina Unabia, former co-worker in Cook County Hospital and now owner/Administrator of Model Home Health Care Inc., to work as the Nurse Supervisor for her company. During this time, Florence was working for TLI Health Care Inc., caring for two patients who were brothers who had muscular dystrophy, on respirator, and unable to move except their lips to control their wheel chairs. Her kind personality and professionalism in nursing care inspired the brothers to recommend her for excellence in nursing.

In 2006, she became the Director of Nursing  for Wellspring Healthcare Services, Inc., after working part-time at Maxim Home Health Care, Inc.

She has been an active member of the Philippine Nurses Association in Chicago, Inc. and was the club’s Recording Secretary for different presidents and she is currently serving as a member of the Board of Directors.

She is an active member of the La Union Club of Chicago and was crowned Mrs. La Union – U.S.A. in 1994-95.

Florence is most grateful to her colleagues, Lourdes M Nisperos and Gloria Simon, both past presidents of the Philippine Nurses Association in Illinois, Inc. for initiating her nomination to this award. She also thanks Richard and Zuzelyn Shroyer, who gave her the opportunity to be the Agency Supervisor/Director of Nursing at Wellspring Healthcare Services, Inc. during its initial formation, licensing, and ongoing activities.

Florence Palmaira dedicates this award for Excellence in Nursing Leadership to all the patients entrusted under her care, and to God our Lord, who had blessed her to be His instrument for His healing power.





NENA MONDONEDO PEREZ (Young Entrepreneur)

Talented, imaginative and a whole lot of heart and soul, Lorena Mondonedo-Perez is a spirit that touches every person that she meets. As this year’s recipient of the Entrepreneur Young Achiever award, Lorena or otherwise known to her friends and family as “Nena” is the founder and CEO of Nena Cosmetics by Nena Brands, Inc.—the first ever Filipina-owned cosmetics line in the United States.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Lorena was taught early on about the importance of discipline, determination and perseverance through hard work. At the tender age of 15, Lorena was already an accomplished golfer. Her accomplishments in this sport included the prestigious national title of Philippine Ladies Golf Amateur Open Champion. It was her strong will and fortitude that led her to become the youngest golf champion in her time. This experience early in her life was an indication that she was determined to do great things.
In 1986, after graduating high school from International School in Makati, Lorena moved to the United States to pursue higher education.  She attended College of St Benedict in St Joseph, MN for the first two years and then transferred to Barat College in Lake Forest where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. While in her junior year of college, Lorena was given the opportunity by her entrepreneurial father to own and manage a deli shop located in the northern suburb of Chicago. Without hesitation, Lorena took on this task. With the help of her sisters, Lorena successfully managed and operated her first business at a young age of eighteen years old. 

Although the deli shop was a profitable business, Lorena had other plans in mind. She wanted new challenges. It was then that she worked as an Accounting Manager for Premier Beauty Supply where she learned about the ins and outs of the beauty industry. She knew then that this was a trade that was more suitable for her. It allowed her to develop her passion for beauty and to work alongside makeup artists, skincare specialists and hair stylists throughout the industry.

After six long years of working for Premier Beauty Supply, Lorena took a leap of faith and quit her management job to train as a MAC makeup artist. As a certified makeup artist, Lorena was finally able to express her creative side for the first time. Her passion and talent was finally unleashed. And with her background in business management along with her talent in artistry, her peers began to notice that this explosive combination along with her vivacious personality is exactly what is needed in this ever-growing business.  

Over a span of her 20-year career in the beauty industry, Lorena held several management positions for prominent companies such as, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon & Spa in Deerfield, where she was awarded the Midwest Regional Manager of the Year Award for two consecutive years. After two years in the Deerfield location, she was promoted to General Manager of the Chicago flagship branch on Michigan Avenue —the first Filipina to ever hold that position.  Lorena successfully managed 175 technicians and grew revenue to over $5 million in her first year.  

More recently, she was the Spa Director at Midtown Athletic Club in Bannockburn where she led a $2 million renovation project of the facility.  She also spearheaded a number of fundraising events that supported charities such as Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Locks for Love, and the Highland Park Family Counseling Services. She also collaborated with local agencies such as the Chamber of Commerce to promote Midtown’s newly renovated spa and fitness facility. But despite the many contributions to the local communities and her collaborations with local agencies, it was her effective management style that ultimately resulted in Midtown’s growth by more than 25% in revenue within three years, the most growth they have seen since they had opened their doors over 20 years ago!

Armed with her decades of experience, a long list of accomplishments, a Masters in Esthetics from the Skin Care and Spa Institute and the loving support of her husband and family, Lorena decided that it was time to act on her dream of starting her own skincare and cosmetics business. So in 2010, Nena Cosmetics was launched in Chicago, IL, the first-ever Filipina-owned cosmetics line in the United States.

Within just three months of the Chicago launch of Nena Cosmetics, the Nena Team also launched in Washington D.C., garnering an extremely positive response from not only the Filipino community, but clients of various races and ages. Still in its young stages, Nena Cosmetics is already seeing desirable profits and interest from distributors throughout Latin America and Asia. There is no doubt that Lorena Mondonedo-Perez is a deserving recipient of this year’s Entrepreneur (Young Achiever) Award.  Congratulations Lorena on your greatest achievements!  We wish you continued success with Nena Cosmetics!
 


LOLITA RANCHERO (Home Health Care Leadership)

Lolita came from a large family in the Philippines where both her parents were widow and widower. Growing up in a large family her parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Julian Macaranas glued their previous families together to one family. She grew up in a middle-class, loving family in a low-class community of the Philippines. Her parents were both in veterinary business.

At the young age of 5 while growing up in a middle class family in Manila, Lolita recalls her sincere health care related entrepreneur wisdom. One day while buying candy at a neighboring store, she overheard a mother asking the store owner to lend her a bucket of water so she could cook food for her children because she had no money to buy water. During that time, the only people with access to a water system was a Chinese business man who sold the water and her parents who used it for private use.  Without hesitancy she offered the water in their house to the women and told her the whole neighborhood can get water from their house instead of buying the water from the Chinese business man, who would sell water where price was rising every month. This simple act touched the women’s heart. This little girl cared so much about her and the neighborhood.

So the news spread that Lolita was giving water away for free. When her parents were at work, her neighborhood would get water from their house by filling their pales. After a while, the neighbor contributed enough money to buy the hose to get water from their house instead of carrying water in pales. Because of increasing number of neighbors getting water from their house they started giving her money every now and then. Then Lolita’s father noticed that the electric and the water bill was getting higher so when he asked her why, Lolita confessed that she is giving away water. Her dad with charitable heart just told her to just be careful that the Chinese business man will not get upset.

Lolita was a hard-working student and has deep love for fellow human being regardless of situation in life. She came over to the US in 1981 as a registered nurse. She graduated BSN in the University of Santo Tomas.

She got married to Eduardo Ranchero in 1983, blessed with one biological son, Kevin, and adopted two children in the Philippines.

Coping with the responsibilities to send money to the Philippines, while paying bills, Lolita worked two jobs as a nurse. Despite her busy schedule she continued to hunger for the opportunity to commune and to spend time with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament that gave her strength. Her life is not all rosy but in all crosses she had, she knew she was carrying her crosses with Jesus that made things possible. She believed that for every situation in life there is an opportunity for holiness.

She believes it was God’s providence for her to teach Catechism at home from 1995 to present time. During this time, it was the lesson about the commandment of Jesus Christ as well as the inspiration of her student that started her mission statement in staffing, the business that she started 1998. To learn more about health care business, she enrolled in University of Saint Francis in Joliet and graduated with a Masters in Science of Healthcare Services Administration in 2002. Lolita believes in the dignity of work, and that we have a responsibility to share and train the trainer who will make the place a better place. As a result of that belief, she has helped associates, colleagues and friends in the health care field including home health, personal services, home delivery pharmacy, hospice, sober living or transition housing like half way house and staffing. She is also a co-founder of PLFI ( Pamanang Lahi Foundation of Illinois ), a non-for-profit organization that assists in humanitarian and spiritual needs presented here and abroad.

With all the health-care related appointment and responsibilities, Lolita continues to enrich herself spiritually by being involved in the church life as an Extraordinary minister, singing in the choir, teaching religious education, Cursillo, giving team in Women’s CRHP (Christ Renew His Parish) and Missionary in  the Peace and Justice of  the Joliet Diocese. She will renew her commitment as an Associates of Sisters of Saint Francis of Mary Immaculate in Joliet in May 1, 2011. Life is good and God is good all the time, again Blessed Holy Saturday and Happy Easter from Lolita M. Ranchero, family and friends.




RAYMOND VELASCO (Financial Leadership)

Ray  began his career after he received his Bachelors in Finance from University of Illinois . He started as a Junior Broker at Merrill Lynch before he came on board to MetLife. Whereby, in his first year he achieved the MetLife Superstar Award, the first of many milestones.

Then, after a little more than 18 months made Leader's Conference in 2007 and has attained Leaders Conference in 2008 and 2010. He is also a current member of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and the Million Dollar Round Table. Currently, he is on-time to achieve the 2011 Conference with MetLife.

Ray’s success in the financial industry is recognizable because his career has been well constructed using his business philosophy as the foundation. This philosophy is clearly distinguished as the catalyst that created his passion towards helping his clients.

Ray has made it his goal to provide families and business owners with the assistance they need in building their financial freedom. He has the skill, knowledge and experience required to help meet his client’s established goals.

His personal goal is to become a lifetime resource for each and every client.


DRS. NUNILO & ELENITA RUBIO FAMILY (Model Family)


*****
















BILLY DEC (Via Man of the Year)

Billy Dec is an Emmy Award Winning Entertainment TV Host and CEO/Founder of Rockit Ranch Productions, Chicago’s premier restaurant and entertainment development company, specializing in the creation, marketing and management of some of the city’s top venues including Rockit Bar and Grill, Rockit Wrigley,The Underground and most recently his New Asian restaurant Sunda.

Dec’s educational background includes the University of Illinois where he majored in Economics/Pre-Law, Chicago-Kent College of Law & the Harvard Business School.He has received numerous awards including “Operator of the Year” from the Nightclub & Bar Conference, “Excellence in Business Award” from the State of Illinois, the Asian American Hall of Fame Award, The Byrne Piven Community Service Award, the State of Illinois 2010 Business Leadership Award from Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White for contributions to the Asian American Community, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Asian Pacific American Community Leadership Award and Chicago-Kent College of Law Alumni Professional Achievement Award and the Asian Pacific American Community Service Award from Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.

Chicago-Kent College of Law Alumni Professional Achievement Award and the Asian Pacific American Community Service Award from Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.

Dec is also actively involved in various committees and boards for non-profit organizations in Chicago, including: American Cancer Society; Make-A-Wish Foundation; After School Matters; the formerly held Chicago 2016 Olympic Committee, where he served as Director of Cultural Relations; and Lookingglass Theatre Company.  Billy also enjoys participating annually in Mayor Daley’s Chicago Public School’s “Principal for a Day.”

Dec writes his own blog on www.BillyDec.com about Chicago and its culturally rich entertainment landscape, where his contact info, press pages and upcoming events calendar are also posted, along with his much talked aboutwww.twitter.com/billydec&www.facebook.com/billydec.





NARNI THERESE ILAGAN YODER (Advertising & Technology)

“Chicago’s in my heart”, says Narni Ilagan Yoder of why she loves her hometown.”There’s something grounding, yet soaring about life here.  Maybe it has something to do with the blue of Lake Michigan up against the rising downtown skyscrapers, but it allows you to dream big in a real way.”

Traveling to many cities, Narni has seen her fair share of life and other cultures.  Having just finished three trips to New York in one week, she’s relieved when she drives down the Kennedy Expressway to her Wicker Park neighborhood.  When she travels for job with YouTube and Google, her day entails brainstorming, strategizing and presenting to the some of the largest marketers in the world.

“Advertising is about affecting society.  As advertisers, we try to understand human beings’ inherent behaviors – their needs, wants and tendencies – to provide experiences that people can connect to emotionally.  At YouTube and Google, my role is to know how people communicate with each other and how a brand can be part of that conversation.”

As head of Consumer Product Goods for Account Solutions at Google, Narni has created a number of award-winning programs including Kraft’s Real Women of Philadelphia featuring Paula Deen,Gillette Fusion ProGlide’s launch and a Quaker Oatscontest. “Kraft’s program is an online reality cooking contest, based on real women.  Compare it to all those “real” housewives we see on TV, they RWOP women are wholesome, inspiring and feel-good to watch.  Theprogram won the ‘Most Contagious Award 2010’ because ituncovered new brand ambassadors from the group of enthusiastic cooks.”

“Just another day at The Zoo,” as Narni states it.  Sheis one of the founding members of a new team at Google known as Creative Content Development,nicknamed after the first video posted on YouTube.”We invite our clients and agency partners to come spend a day at The Zoo – you’ll never know what you‘ll see.”  Analogies aside, it is a place where Narni gets to generate ideas using the latest technologies across Google, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, mobile, etc. 
Narni’s knack for developing these ideas stemmed from her days at University of Chicago. She would spend hours deep in research, immersed in books. “I would go through research marathon sessions todiscover connections amongst cultures, history or sciences.”  She can be a very academic in her approach, but it is with a deep sense of humility & pride in what she cares about: her family & friends, Chicago, the Filipino community, the environment, and independent arts (she recently graduated from the improv program at The Second Cityand served on a panel for Tribeca Flashpoint Academy).


“From my days attending an all-girls school, I knew I had a unique perspective and voice to share. I was also surrounded by a large Filipina group and had access to great resourcesfrom the Chicago Filipino community such as the Rizal Center,Filipino dance troupes, FILCRA, Pintig, the Calamba Youth organization, etc.”

As the community support grew, it led her to coveted position as an intern for the Walt Disney Company in Burbank, CA.  “I had an amazing opportunity with the Summer Program for Empowerment and Leadership. I interned four days a week at Disney’s finance division and spent the fifth day working at the community center learning valuable life skills.” Run by the LA organization Search to Involve Pilipino Americans,SPEL alumni now work in influential positions in the government, non-profits, finance, media and high-tech industries.

She then joined PriceWaterhouseCoopers as strategy consultant.  “Those two years gave me the analytical experience to take a situation, figure it out and make recommendations as to how to move a business.  I apply those skills to everything I’ve done since.”  She gained more than just business acumen at PwC; it is also where Narni met hernow-husband, Chris Yoder.  “Chris and I were the brightest, and most opinionated team members on the project. Little did we know that stubbornness meant we were actually made for each other.”

In 2000, Narni and Chris moved to DC.  “I worked with AOL Time Warner executives to hone the message of our financial outlook to Wall Street.” Interestingly, she joined right before the merger.  “Imagine the internet prowess of AOL coupled with TW, a media behemoth.  I was part of media history and spent six years fighting the good fight of how to bring media and online together.”During that time, she covered the financial, strategic and planning sides of AOL’s entertainment properties.  Her last role included negotiating business deals with large partners such as Electronics Arts.  “I realized I didn’t want to be a lawyer, but I was good at debating.”

Narni attributes that trait to her mom. “She always pushed me to stand up for what I did. When I was eight-years-old, my mom had me order whatever I wanted ata restaurant.  The waiter was in disbelief, but when he served seven entrées, my mom said, ‘Okay, let’s eat!’”Moreover her mom and dad’s work ethic have been a big influence.  “When I was little, they balanced two jobs, including the independent laboratory they now own with Chris.  It’s great seeing all that hard work pay off and I get to support and cheer them on as the business grows.”

Receiving the Hall of Fame award is a true testament to her accomplishments.  “I’m a product of the community and wouldn’t get to do what I lovewithout the great mentors, resources and encouragement I’ve had throughout my life.”





Ambassador Libran Cabactulan (International Award for Public Services)

Ambassador Libran Cabactulan is a career diplomat.  His foreign assignments were in Geneva, Brussels, New York, Sydney and the United Arab Emirates.

In the home office in Manila, he served in various capacities, including as Executive Director of the Office for United Nations and Other International Organizations (UNIO), Executive Director for Consular Affairs, Special Assistant to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Communications and Fiscal Matters, Senior Special Assistant of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation with the rank of Assistant Secretary.  Prior to his current assignment as Permanent Representative to the United Nations, he was first assigned as Philippine Ambassador for Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation at the Philippine Mission in New York.

Ambassador Cabactulan received a Presidential Citation for his role in the repatriation of Filipinos from Lebanon during the Lebanon-Israeli crisis in 2006.  After his successful presidency of the 2010 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Review Conference, he was conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu, the highest Philippine decoration for exemplary achievements in foreign service and international relations.

Ambassador Cabactulan is a political economist, having completed his bachelor and masteral degrees in Political Science at the University of the Philippines and a certificate in Development Economics from the same university. 

He also received a diploma with merit on Commercial Policy from the General Agreements on Tariffs and Trade (now WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Ambassador Cabactulan has extensive experience in negotiations.  He was a member of a team that negotiated Philippine accession to the General Agreements on Tariffs and Trade.  He participated in a number of negotiations on textile agreements, the General System of Preferences or GSP and Coffee Export Quota.  He led the G-77 in the negotiations on economic and related issues at the United Nations in New York and Geneva (General Assembly, ECOSOC, Commission on Sustainable Development, Population Commission, UNICEF and UNDP) in 1989 and 1996.  He was the facilitator of the UN Ad Hoc Working Group that paved the way for the convening of the Monterrey Summit in Mexico on Financing for Development in 1999.

Ambassador Cabactulan is married with two children.




Cleo Casambre M.D.  (MUSIC)

Cleofe was born in Cebu City, Philippines. Her father is Engineer Armando Guangko, who is chairman of Philippine Chamber of Commerce awardee Ahcil-Antica Company, which produces commercial grade environmentally safe organic pesticides. Her father also heads PERT Inc. (Products, Equipment, Research and Technology.)  Cleofe’s paternal grandfather was Delfin Guangko, son of Santiago Guangco, who started the Guangko Iron Works in the early 50’s.  From her father, Cleofe developed her interest in science and innovation.  It was her father that demanded excellence in academics while she was growing up in Cebu. Cleofe took her first piano lessons from her mother, Lina Marinay, when she was only 5 years old. She then continued with Terry Valdhueza of the Zamora Music School in Cagayan de Oro City and Pilar Blanco Sala of the Battig Piano School in Cebu. Her parents played the piano, too. She recalls her most favorite song that her father would attempt to play on the piano was “ I Believe”. She gets teary eyed every time she hears this song, “I believe for every drop of rain that falls, a flower grows ….”

Cleofe’s mother, a public school teacher, instilled in her the values of kindness to others, as well as patience and compassion towards those who are suffering; qualities that are of utmost importance in her becoming a doctor later on.  When Cleofe was 13 years old, she auditioned and was accepted to the prestigious Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) in Mt. Makiling, Los Banos, Laguna.  The school was a project of The First Lady Imelda Marcos designed to nurture gifted and talented young artists.  PHSA has produced a number of distinguished alumni such as Rowena Arrieta, Grace Nono and Raymond Red.  Raymond Red won the Palm D’Or Award at a recent Cannes Film Festival.  Surrounded by nature and beauty, Cleofe was trained in both the arts and sciences. She was a piano major under the tutelage of Alice Araneta Lim. Cleofe also began to compose music while she was in high school. “Ako’y Bata” and “O, Bathala” were her first compositions. Cleofe excelled in the academics as well.  She was the team leader that won First Prize in the Science Quiz Bowl. The winning answer was “Friction”.  One of her team members, Greg Zuniega, is now a famous pianist in Manila. After graduation from high school, she later enrolled at the University of the Philippines College of Music, major in piano.  She was a consistent University Scholar and graduated Class Valedictorian, magna cum laude, from the University of the Philippines College of Music Class 1985, major in piano. At UP, her mentors included Prof. Regalado Jose, Dean Ramon Santos and Ryan Cayabyab.  During her summer vacations in Cebu, Cleofe had some time to visit the sick patients in the hospital nearby.  In one of her visits, a stranger led her to the Gullas Hospital second floor Anatomy lab and showed her a row of cadavers.  She found the visit very interesting and had challenging thoughts to study medicine after her music degrees.

After her Master’s Degree in Music, major in piano and minor in composition, she auditioned for a DAAD Scholarship to pursue advanced piano studies, Kunstlerishe Ausbildung, at the Stuttgart Musikhochshule und Darstellende Kunst in Germany under Prof. Andre Marchand.

Prof. Marchand emphasized clarity and beauty of tone and phrasing when interpreting classical piano music.  Cleofe incorporates the same principles in her own piano compositions “Healing Music Series Opus 143 for Piano” which she performed and recorded in 2010.

After Germany, Cleofe moved to the U.S. with her husband Renato. What was initially thought impossible to do became a reality when Cleofe enrolled at the Ball State University for her Pre-med Studies. She was a straight A student and was later accepted to the Indiana University School of Medicine.  Discipline and hard work were not new to her. She was just “going with the flow.”  Her destiny to become a musician/doctor MD was well within reach. With the love and support of her family and her faith in God’s goodness, she finished medical school in 2000.  She then completed her Residency in Anesthesiology at Advocate Masonic Medical Center in Chicago where she received the Department Chair Prize for Highest in the Anesthesiology Inservice Examination. She later did a Pain Medicine Fellowship at Northwestern Medical Center. As a fellow, she had the wonderful opportunity to work with Dr. Honorio Benzon, an internationally renowned pain doctor who also happens to be one of the inductees to the Hall of Fame 2011.

Cleofe is now an Attending Physician in Anesthesiology at Mercy Hospital in Chicago. She has taken care of over 5,000  patients and kept all of them safe during  procedures. There is a crucifix in every operating room at Mercy and sometimes she whispers a prayer to patients who are extremely anxious prior to their surgeries. At Mercy, she considers it a joy and privilege to also share her knowledge and clinical skills to rotating medical students and residents from the University of Illinois School of Medicine.

Dr. Cleofe G. Casambre is a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Mu Phi Epsilon International Honor Society and the International Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. She is the president of her company, Lookrelaxmd Products and Services LLC.

Being a physician, pianist and composer, Cleofe believes in the healing power of music.  Relaxing music decreases pain, stress and anxiety. An anonymous poet once wrote, “ Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest, heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul. “  This poem is on the front cover of her CD, “Healing Music Series Opus 143 for Piano”, a collection of original compositions based on the names of certain individuals. Cleofe is the first person in music history to compose music based on Jesus Christ’s name using the Grid of 7.  It is the opening melody of her composition  “Amen” dedicated to all religions to end all conflicts.

In March 2011, Cleofe received the Copyright Registration Certificate issued in Nov. 21, 2010.  The book and CD will be available in stores this year.  The following review was written by her friend, Grace Nono, renowned Philippine music performing artist and author:
“The Healing Music Series Opus 143 for Piano” composed and performed by Cleofe Guangko Casambre MD, offers an understated virtuosity in the service of helping to restore inner music among its listeners. The lucid tones and gentle lyricism soothe the frazzled body and spirit, calm the turbulent winds of the heart and mind,  strengthen the self that must rise above life’s exigencies. It is a perfect soundscape for spaces of healing”.

What’s next for Dr. Cleofe Guangko Casambre MD?  Only God knows.  She does intend to continue her good work, keep her family happy, and laugh often with friends.  After all, she considers herself only a  channel of His peace and love. She is only “going with the flow.”






Jon Cotay  (Business Leadership in Fashion)

Jon Davidson Lim Cotay or simply called Jon Cotay, is an important addition to the roster of successful Filipino-American and one of the major influences on fashion trends in Chicago. He is one of the co-founders of AKIRA Chicago, a successful fashion retailer who aimed to heighten fashion awareness across the city and put Chicago on the fashion map.

Jon is a businessman, nurse, realtor, fabulous giver, mentor and a philanthropist. Born on June 16, 1974, in Manila, Philippines, Jon has a well thought out plan in his life and treasures and lives by the belief that each one of us has incarnated to play a specific role in this journey of life. “When we find our special role and play it with love, we experience contentment and happiness- thus finding our life purpose.” It was this planted and nurtured motto that guides him to be strong and maximize his desire to realize his goals in life.

Honoring his parents Jose and Belen Cotay, who brought him and his siblings to the United States and provided the resources for a quality education that laid the foundation for his success. He came to Chicago at the age of twelve during the hype of the Philippines’ 1986 People Power Revolution. His family moved out to Indiana and started a motel business and they have been in the hospitality industry for the past twenty years now.     

Jon is a graduate of University of Illinois at Urbana, Champaign with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. He was a practicing Registered Nurse for eight years and at the same time, a Licensed Real Estate Professional. Like many other people, Jon continued to make an assessment of his life and his accomplishments. He realized that he wanted to do something productive when he reaches the age of thirty. A great opportunity came in when he was twenty-eight; two of his college friends, Erikka Wang and Eric Hsueh decided to start a business. Thus, the birth of AKIRA.

Since its inception, Jon has focused on managing the business development and marketing strategies for AKIRA, which generated its consistent growth and engaging strategic partnerships with the different brands and stylists in the U.S. and throughout the world. AKIRA has become one of the most widely known fashion boutiques in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. Jon has paved the way for AKIRA to be known as revolutionizing the fashion runway in the city. Sold-out and SRO fashion shows are executed under his creative expertise that created AKIRA as one of the champions on fashion transformation in the city for years now.

Throughout its 8 years of existence, AKIRA has evolved and emerged and Jon painstakingly contributed to the expansion of this most widely known fashion boutique in Chicago. At present, AKIRA has 14 doors and an online store, which offer full-line of Women’s and Men’s clothing, footwear and accessories.

With the mindset of giving back to the community, AKIRA has proudly worked on behalf of 30 charities with Jon spearheading this mission. He successfully staged fashion shows, parties and charity events through AKIRA, which enable them to share their success and love for fashion with their loyal clientele. With the victorious outcome of all these events, Jon became a known figure in the community as a fabulous giver and AKIRA become a household name in Chicago for the most avant-garde show concepts.

Jon continuously strived to take AKIRA in the next level of its booming success. AKIRA garnered several awards and recognitions through his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Fashion Group International honored AKIRA for the Best Chicago Retailer in Rising Stars 2008 Awards. AKIRA was voted as #1 Women’s & Men’s Boutique in Chicago, 3 years in row by Chicago Scene Magazine. AKIRA was voted as Sexiest Boutique in Chicago by Victoria Secret and was voted #1 Boutique by Today’s Chicago Woman Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards. AKIRA received the Business Catalyst Award in 2010 Latino Fashion Week. In the 2010 Annual Awards for Business Excellence (AABE), AKIRA has been honored as a recipient in the retail category. 

As a mentor, Jon directed AKIRA’s College Outreach Program. They have shown strong presence within the academic community by sponsoring the program Generation Y, a photography, music, and art and design program in Chicago public schools. AKIRA does also its part to educate the future students in the world of fashion and Jon reached out by conducting workshops at nine colleges, including Columbia College, De Paul University, Northwestern and the Fashion Institute of Technology, along with the 17 national universities. Jon also serves as a member of Advisory Committee at the International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT) Chicago.

In addition to his award-winning qualifications, Jon’s unwavering commitment to help the community and heal the world is immeasurable. He was a co-chair for 2008 Chicago Gateway Green Tie Ball. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s expressways, gateways and neighborhoods. As a philanthropist, Jon serves as a Board of Director to DiBi Foundation who seeks to strengthen and expand educational services and supplies in rural communities throughout the world.

Jon Cotay is the epitome of excellence. His yearning to achieve his envisioned goals is beyond measure. His life has never been and will never be empty. He approaches life and continues to approach life and life’s challenges with a sense of calm and dedication knowing he can and will manage through any difficulties with determination while touching the lives of others and making a difference. An extraordinary man, he is an embodiment of success.





Norma Manankil  (Via Woman of the Year)

"This is the only gift that I have received this year," a young girl cried with joy, hugging the package. "Thank you, thank you so much," she thanked the lady-giver, in a quivering but joyful voice. This touching scene happened few days before Christmas 2010 at the Illinois Center for the Education and Rehabilitation of Handicapped Children in Chicago where today's Woman of the Year's charitable giving has brought unspeakable joy to the recipients for almost 20 years!. This girl is only one of the thousands of recipients whom Norma Manankil has been sharing her blessings, year after year. Gifted with the art of cooking, her "catering" hobby-business is her gift(plus gift packages) of the human spirit which not only brings joy to her family and friends, but more so to her various charities which feed the hungry and touch the lives of the less fortunate folks. Her food giving extends to senior citizens in the community especially during holidays. She hosted the Notre Dame Simbang Gabi Parish reception, for three years, donating food,  with  more than three hundred guests every night. 

The foregoing charitable service is just a speck in the life of this multi-achiever-giving, wonderful lady. Nee Norma Ronas was born in Angeles City, Pampanga. She became a teacher at the tender age of 16. At that very young age, she taught in the public schools. She taught grammar, Pilipino (Tagalog) college physical education, at four large private schools at the same time. Living up to her calling as a teacher, one of her many concerns is the preservation of our Philippine cultural heritage and to inculcate its importance among our youth, especially those who were born in America. She is "Tita Norma" in " Eskwelahang Munti," teaching Tagalog and showing folkdances performed by her American students from St. Giles School in Oak Park, where she taught for 32 years. The show was featured on "Philippine TV Reports hosted by the late Joe Reyes, the first Filipino-American television program in Chicago. She put up her Kayumanggi Dance Group which promoted the Philippine culture through performances in Chicago. In the 80's, she and Conrad were interviewed on Chicago's NBC-CH 5 by host Norma Quarles about the growing Filipino population.

For the beauty and poise personality of the young Filipinas, Norma Manankil, initiated and directed the first "Miss Philippines of the Midwest," strictly judged according to beauty, talent and personality, the "Gems", "Jr. Gems", and the "Best Dressed Women" of Chicago. She revolutionized the Cotillion which was introduced by Dr. Sonny and Luz Sunga, founders of Habagat. She choreographed cotllions for the IPMS, FACC, PMAC, PESO, and private formal debuts. To this day, Norma, is the mainstay choreographer of the Rigodon de Honor during Philippine Independence Day celebrations and other Dinner Balls. Her ongoing Jr. Gems Summer Fashion Fest is aimed to raise funds for her yearly Food Project in Pampanga.

Writing is also one of Norma's forte. She has been a Society columnist for various Philippine community newspapers, the Philippine Herald, Philippine Times, Filipino Tribune, and Filipino Tribune. Currently, she pens a column in Via Times Newsmagazine, titled "Beeline." She also authored and published "My Favorite  Lines," a collection of heart-warming quotes that are inspiring and uplifting, which she enjoys giving to her friends.

An achiever, Norma held top positions in the community, Past president of FISCA, Filipino Women's Association in the 70's,  Charter president of the Chicago Philippine Lions Club, 1st Filipino Woman Chair for Lioness Club of district I-A, Circulo Capampangan, the first elected solo Executive Lady Chairperson of the Philippine Independence Week Committee (PIWC) in 1987, she is also the first Lady Parade Marshall who marched with government dignitaries, such as Mayor George Washington, during the PIWC parade in downtown Chicago.

Norma  continues to show her leadership by chairing big fundraising campaigns under the Philippine Consulate, Typhoon Ruby Walkathon, Walk with Pride, Disaster and Emergency Drives, and Circulo's Pinatubo. Although a non-doctor, she currently chairs the PMAC Foundation's Caroling Fundraising Committee for the past four years, and its Scholarship Committee. In recognition of her outstanding community and charitable services in and outside the Filipino American community, Norma is a recipient of numerous awards from the community, profesional and government sectors.


Twenty Outstanding Filipino in the US from Washington D.C., Hall of Fame, from VIA Times & CPRTV, IFSEIC, a charitable organization for indigent children in Iowa, Masonic Builders Ass'n in Chicago for Leadership,  Pamana Leadership Award from Philippine Times, USA, Lioness award of the year, Melvin Jones Award for Humanitarian services from the Lions International Club, Chicago Philippine Lions Club Golden Life Achievement Award, Recognition Award: Cook County Treasurer, Maria Pappa, Food Feeding award from ICREA's Handicapped children and the Heart of the School Award from St Giles Schools in Oak Park. She was also listed in the "Who's Who Among Asian Women in the U.S. in 1993.

Favorite Charities and Doings; Bahay Pag-ibig, Our Lady of Orpanage in Angeles City, St. Martin Outreach Center in Manila, PADS of DuPage, ICREA monthly Feedin Program, Food baskets distribution in Pampanga reaching as many towns as she can which she started 3 years ago, last year she distributed 1,000 food bags in nine barrios culminated with an invitation by President, Gloria Macapagal. This year's distribution was in 11 barrios with 1,4oo food bags under the banner of the Circulo Capampangan.
    
As a caterer, she was selected by the Philippine Consulate as host of the Philippine Trade Department of Manila's promotional Tour in the 80's, demonstrating at the JCPenney in Niles, and McCormick Place, catered for Mayor Daleys Filipino Reception for 3 consecutive years and recently was featured on WLS  Channel 7, "Norma cooks Pancit" during the celebration of Philippine Independence, hosted by Stacey Baca. That segment was shown all over "WLS" nationwide. Norma is also an avid traveler. She has visited almost 40 countries. She sometimes organizes tours, cruises, and religious pilgrimages.

Norma is a super-achiever and, more importantly, a super-giver lady. Her favorite gifts to her friends who are celebrating their birthdays, retirement and during their time of sorrows like a passing of a loved ones is her catering which serves the grieving family and their friends. This wrter is a most grateful recipient of Norma's "Feeding Multitude" gift during the two-day wake for my husband, Dennis, attended by a "multitude of more than 700 mourners."

Married to Conrad Manankil, also an active leader of the community, known as the M.C. of the community, dubbed as the "Bob Barker of Chicago by Channel 5 during the "Judging" of TV host, Norma Quarles in the Miss Philippine Beauty Pageant.  He is a financial and tax accountant, a developer of his own subdivision in Manibaug, Pampanga. Conrad is the founder and Charter President of the Circulo Capampangan. The Manankils have two children: Mark, a bachelor, and Dyan, who is married to Charlie Ruth.  They have three children; Jack, Matt and Nate.

Norma's most favorite line came from her mother while was growing up,  "Giving is the only way to thank God for all the blessings we have!" (ESN)



 
 

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Previous Hall of Famers

2010 :

Joe Aldeguer (Man of the Year - Outstanding in Business)
Ferdinand Alido (Engineering)
Ira Azulay (Friend of the Filipino in Immigration Law)
Erlinda Barranda, Ph.D. (Education/Public Service)
Bob Dacanay (Entrepreneurship);
Pacita Guinsatao & family (Model Family)
Rose Hipona (Dance Art-Choreography)
Jane Miran (Dance Art-Folk Dance Choreography)
Vernie Morales (Outstanding Community/Public Service)
Dave Pauldine (Friend of Filipino in Education)
Bong Penera (Music)
Cesar Puray, M.D. (Sexual Medicine)

RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI Outstanding Asian American)

Brad Tan, M.D. (Medicine-Pathology)
Ellen Tan (Outstanding Community Service)
Grace Tomas-Tolentino (Mental Health)
Dalisay Villalon (Woman of the Year - Outstanding in Nursing & Community Service)
Dave Villanueva, M.D. (Medicine)

2008:

TERESITA RICAFORT CALDERON-ALARCON
Humanitarian & Civic Service-National

CONSUL GENERAL BLESILA CABRERA
Outstanding Service to the Filipino American
Community of Chicago.

EMILIE GABORNE DEARING
Community & Civic Leadership-National

REMEDIOS DELA CRUZ, R.N.
Nursing Service & Leadership

EMER DUCDUC
Engineering & Science

MAR DUREZA
Entertainment

OLIVA ENRIQUEZ
Community Leadership

JUAN (JOHNNY) FRANCISCO
Business Leadership-Travel Industry

RANDY GENER
Journalism/Theatre Arts

ESTER HANA
Music

BENILDA HIZON, R.N.
Nursing Volunteerism & Leadership

CARLOS JIMENEZ, M.D.
Man of the Year 2008

JENITA & ELPIDIO JULIAN & FAMILY
Model Family

NELIA LAUREL-LADLAD
Woman of the Year 2008

MICHAEL LERNER
Friend of the Filipino

LOURDES CORBO LIVAS
Spirit of Excellence in Woman

ARLENE MARIE A. LORICA, M.D., F.A.A.P.
Medical Diplomacy

ARUN SAMPANTHAVIVAT
Outstanding Asian American

2007:

GERRY AUSTRIA - Business Leadership-National
DIOSDADO P. BANATAO - Entrepreneurial Leadership-International
TITA RECOMETA-BRADY - Visual Arts
MARISSA V. CARIDO - Woman in Business
VICENTE O. ENCISO, M.D. - Medicine-National
LYDIA ESPINO, M.D. - Sports-Golf
AMBASSADOR WILLY GAA - Public Service-International
FLORDELIZ S. KRAMER - Spirit of Excellence in Woman
NANCY LOO - Friend of the Filipino in Media
AIDA R. MARTIN, PH.D.- Education-National
CZARINA MIRANI - Performing/Entertainment Art
EDEN OLARTE - Nursing
REV. NOAH PANLILIO - Religion
LORELEI S. PARADERO - Home Health Nursing Executive
ISAGANI C. PUERTOLLANO - Community Dedication
ALMA REED - Community Service-National
EDMUNDO F. RELUCIO - M.D VIA Man of the Year
MANUEL M. SANCHEZ, M.D. - Medicine/Medical Missionary
DANTE RAUL TEODORO - Humanitarian-National
DRS. GREG & MELINDA TOLENTINO & FAMILY - Model Family
LEONOR ALVIZ TSAI - VIA Woman of the Year
RON VERGARA - Entrepreneur
SAM VILLANUEVA - Engineering Leadership

2006:

DESIREE ECHAVEZ-ALFON - Heritage/Cultural Art
NORMA BAJA - International Woman of Goodwill
RINA LOPEZ-BAUTISTA (Peace Builder - International Award
VIC C. CAMUA, JR. - Community Leadership-National
EDIZON R. DAYAO - Music/Entertainment
TOTI FUENTES - International Award in Music Entertainment (*Dec.)
ROBERT GARD - Friend of the Filipino in Immigration Law
DR. CHRISTOPHER GUERRERO - Medicine
LILY LIU - Most Outstanding Asian
TERRY MISTICA MAGDONGON - Education
NONOY MENDOZA - VIA Man of the Year
JOSEF QUIROZ - Business
DR. FELICITAS RAMOS - VIA Woman of the Year
JOE REYES - Broadcast Media
RICK RODRIGUEZ - Ballroom Dance Education
MARIE ROSETE - Nursing
RUBEN SALAZAR - Community Leadership
SHERIE SLOANE - Young Achiever in Visual Art
ROMEO TABUENA - International Award in Visual Art
LARRY WERT - Friend of the Filipino in Media.

2005:

JUDY AGNO - Home Health Care Nursing Executive
GINA ALEXANDER - Fashion /Design National Award
FIDES CUYUGAN-ASENSIO - International Award in Music
Y. JUDD AZULAY, ESQ. - Friend of the Filipino
RYAN CAYABYAB - International Award in Music
DR. & MRS. CESAR CUMBA & FAMILY - Model Family
DRS. NIDA & EDWARD HERNAEZ - Medicine/Medical Mission
ALMA G. JAROMAHUM - Nursing
GENE LEE - Most Outstanding Asian
REV. DR. RICHARD MIRPURI - Religion
TILLIE MORENO - Entertainment
CELESTINA NAVAL - Aesthetic Art
EDDY OCAMPO - Dance Art
ROGER ODIAMAR - VIA Man of the Year
JOSE H. OMILA - National Award in Community Service
CORA PASTRANA - National Award in Media
DR. CESAR PURAY - Humanitarian Leadership
DR. MILA DILOY PURAY - VIA Woman of the Year
RODNEY TO - National Award in Performing Art
MILLISA VASICH - Young Achiever
JOSEFINA ABAYA-WEE SIT - Community Leadership

2004:

Joe Ahern - Friend of the Filipino in Media
Adrian Atizado - Community Service
Bernardo Bernardo - Entertainment
Corazon Calma - Education
Amelia Bamba Delfin - Fashion
Adele Diploma - Nursing Education
Marcel Esguerra - Dance Education
Eugene A. Dizon - Music
Dr. S. Sol Flores - Dentistry
Dan Gawat - VIA Man of the Year
Carolina Hernandez, Ph.D.- International Award
Lina Jonson - VIA Woman of the Year
Regina Paz Lopez - Human Spirit International Award
Carmen Manuel - Executive Leadership
Bernardo C. Marigmen III - Visual Art
Lourdes Cruz Matters, Esq,- Women's Advocacy (National Law)
Jessica Arong O'Brien, Esq. - Law
Felix Padlan - Business
Nieves Plurad Mayor - Aesthetic Art
Dr. Nunilo Rubio - Medicine
Joy Manuel - Community Service
Danny Tinimbang - Entertainment Production
Edwin Tumlos - Young Achiever

2003:

Emir Abinion - VIA Man of the Year
Manny Aguja, Esq. - Law
Lourdes Anonuevo, DDS - Dentistry
Rocky Aoki - Friend of the Filipino
Ambassador Lauro Baja. Jr. - International Award in Public Service
Juanito Bartolome, MD - Medicine
Edith Bilang - Visual Art
Robert Chavez - Aesthetic Art
Anna Fermin - Music
Dan Gawat - Entrepreneur
Maura Gonzalo - Religion
IBU Group - Entertainment
Wilfredo Imperial - Fashion
Raffy Lopez - Media Executive
Jesus Manalo - Sports (Bowling)
Neneth Miranda - Dance Art
Charles Mortel - Art (Photography)
Max Norte - Community Service
Jenita Julian - Education
Gloria O. Simon - Nursing
Drs. Reynaldo & Dalisay Sulit - Model Family
Rebecca Sy - VIA Woman of the Year
Fred Tsai - Engineering Executive
Eric Tsai - Executive Leadership
Crispina Unabia - Business
Eliseo Zerrudo - Accounting

2002:

Jonathan N. Abera, DMD - Dentistry
Ted A. Beatie - Friend of the Filipino
Drs, Tristan & Belba Briones & Family - Model Family
Lolita B. Compas - Nursing National Award
Aristotle dela Cruz - Business
Andy Gaston - Young Achiever
Arcadio Joaquin, Jr. , Esq.- Community Service
Lina Jonson - Community Service
Marilyn Liwanag - Public Service
Gigi Mapes - Dance Art
Consuelo Molano - Religion
Mario Patdu - Visual Art
Mila Pura, MD - Medicine
Roderick Relucio - Sports (Volleyball)
Glenn Rivera - Esthetic Art
Amabel delara Sizer - Executive Leadership
Elizabeth Vasich - Education
Romeo Vincoy - Entertainment
Luzviminda Wasseluck - Nursing (*DEC)
Angelene Youngman - Architecture
Cris Zamora - Music

2001:

May Buenafe Afante - Dance Entertainment
Joe Aldeguer - Business
Dennis Bermejo - Computer Technology
Willi Red Buhay - Visual Art
Perla Cudal - Music
Israel Desierto, Esq, - Law
Nilo Francia - Sports
Ramon Lazaro - Fashion
Chito Macatual - Song Entertainment
Dr, Rupert Mayuga - Medicine
Nonoy Mendoza - Media, National Award
Soledad Munoz - Education
Teofil M. Nayan, DDS - Dentistry (*DEC)
Angelina Policarpio - Business
Jacinto Regalado, Ph.D. - Science & Technology
Rosalina Robles, DDS - Dentistry
Atty. Gen. Jim Ryan - Friend of the Filipino
Rey Sapnu - Community Service
Gerry Tolentino III - Young Achiever
Crispina Unabia - Nursing
Rev. Fr. Anthony J. Vader - Religion & Friend of the Filipino
Dr, Raymond Verzosa & Family - Model Family
Consul General Emelinda Pineda - Outstanding Service
2000:

Ron Cabildo - Entertainment
Nestor & Elsa Castillo - Dance Art
Maricar Madrid Crost, Esq. - Law
Exequiel dela Cruz - Science
Basil Glenn de Venecia - Fashion
Richard A. Devine, Esq. - Friend of the Filipino
Jose D. Flores, Jr. - Business
Patricia E. Johnson - Accounting, National Award
Maw Dawn Lant - Community Service
Rufino Licos & Family - Model Family
Bishop Ray Llarena - Religion
Leonardo C. Malalis, MD - Medicine
Arnez M. Nisperos - Young Achiever
Cornelio SJ Obordo - Nursing
Gerardo A. Oconer - Engineering
Reynaldo V. Pascua - Education (*DEC)
Benjamin M. Rigor, MD - Medicine, National Award
James "Jojo" Stagen - Sports (Martial Arts)
Zeny D. Suansing - Business
Nimrod B. Tabang - Music
Lt. Gov. Corinne B. Wood - Friend of the Filipino

1999:

Olivia Rocha Aliga - Music
Violeta Beltran, MD - Model Family
JR Cadawas - Arts (wood-carving)
Daisy Cajigal - Community Service
Tita Delo - Nursing (*DEC)
Carmen Estacio - Fashion
Lilia Gaurano - Dance Art
Olegario Ignacio, Jr. . MD - Medicine, National Award
Alfonso Lanceta - Community Service, National
Gerardo Liwanag - Community Service
Sid Manalo - Sports
Cornelio Natividad - Business
Arturo Nisperos - Science & Technology
Ron Salazar - Young Achiever
Neddie P. Santos - Religion
Linda Simunek - Education
Patricia C. Spedale - Public Service
Enrique Villalon, MD - Medicine
Sec of State Jesse White - Friend of the Filipino