In a heartfelt recognition of their years of dedicated public service, the City Government of Zamboanga pays tribute to 28 retired employees during the 23rd Despedida de Agradecimiento para los Retirados de Gobierno, held at Astoria Hotel, Wednesday, August 20.
Mayor Khymer Olaso spearheaded the recognition ceremony organized by the City Human Resource and Management Office (CHRMO).
Leading the list of honorees were former City Environment and Natural Resources Officer Engr. Reynaldo Gonzales, Assistant City Administrator Cesar Raz and Assistant City Social Welfare and Development Officer Uldarico Fabian. The honorees came from various departments who retired from January to June 2025 under the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE), the city’s institutional system that fosters appreciation and rewards loyalty, dedication, and excellence in public service.
In his message, Mayor Olaso expressed gratitude to the retirees for their contributions to the local government. He also serenaded them with a song, underscoring his deep appreciation and respect. “Even though you’re retired, don’t forget the essence of public service. Your loyalty and the love you gave to the city means so much to me, as your mayor. Keep sharing your wisdom and the fruits of your labor,” he said.
Mayor Olaso commended Gonzales, Fabian, and Raz, for their exemplary leadership and invaluable service to the city.
Each retiree received certificates of recognition, P5,000 cash gift and a token of appreciation from the Zamboanga City Government Employees Association (ZCGEA). Likewise, they received one sack of rice each and had the opportunity to win raffle prizes.
Other retirees also honored were Bonifacio P. Jose, Public Services Officer III; Eduardo M. Siano, Laborer I; Romeo R. Robinson, Laborer I; Grace T. Gregorio, Social Welfare Officer III; Julienne Joy E. Garcia, Social Welfare Assistant; Conchita A. Biona, Social Welfare Aide; Rosalina M. Perez, Administrative Aide I; Angelito B. Angeles, Utility Worker I; Romualda G. Item, Housing and Homesite Regulation Officer I; Maximo D.C. Bucoy, Administrative Assistant II; Ramon S. Reyes, Utility Worker I; Eduardo C. Alvarez, Mason I; Eduardo E. Delica, Mechanic II; Pamela B. Ting, Local Treasury Operations Officer II; Virginia M. Medina, Ticket Checker; Rizalde F. Gonzales, Meat Inspector II; Jesus L. Santos, Administrative Aide III; Leonora R. Dela Torre, Administrative Aide VI; Marlyn B. Patron, Administrative Officer V; Rodrigo D. Surbano, Registration Officer II; Rodrigo C. Bregondot, Laborer I; Lowelia G. Dinalagan, Nurse II; Maria Magdalena M. Madrazo, Stenographic Reporter III; Jaime M. Troyo, Agricultural Technologist; and Maria Lourdes S. Alba, Administrative Aide I.
Present at the momentous event were CHRMO Head Marinyd Tingcang, CGSO Officer Engr. Rene dela Cruz, CSWDO Officer Ma. Socorro Rojas, OCENR Acting Chief Gerry Pollisco, City Civil Registrar Atty. Eric Elias, City Secretary Atty. Kenneth Beldua, City Veterinarian Dr. Arcadio Cavan Jr., and other department representatives who witnessed the tribute. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: April Araneta-Adriano/Albert Atilano/Jen Casido/ Roselyn Bunot)