In recognition of their unwavering commitment to public service, 12 employees of the City Government of Zamboanga were honored for their exemplary record of punctuality, perfect attendance and active participation in city programs and events from January 1 to December 31, 2024.

The recognition, dubbed the “Maagap Award,” was announced by the City Human Resource and Management Office (CHRMO) during the Monday flag-raising ceremony on September 22, 2025 at City Hall grounds. The award formed part of the local government’s Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE), which seeks to boost employee morale and inspire a culture of excellence and dedication in public service.

Mayor Khymer Olaso, together with his Chief of Staff and Secretary Celso Lobregat, personally presented the certificates to the awardees in the presence of department heads and city officials.

In his message, Mayor Olaso conveyed the city’s deep gratitude for the honorees’ dedication and reaffirmed his administration’s support to recognizing and motivating employees who consistently go above and beyond serving the Zamboangueños.

The awardees were from the six city departments including Francis E. Ituralde and Jefferson A. Rio of the City Engineer’s Office (CEO); Allen R. Agan and Jonathan B. Mollejon of the City Mayor’s Office (CMO); Catherine D. Dagalea, Noel C. Macasinag and Liza Singco of the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO); Joselito B. Patiño of the Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVet); Michelle A. De Sosa, Ramsy A. Fernando and Jocelyn G. Enriquez of the Office of the City Council (SP); and Jennilyn C. Visitacion of the CHRMO.

In addition to certificates of recognition, each awardee will receive a 25-kilo sack of rice from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) as a token of appreciation for their steadfast service.

Through initiatives like the Maagap Award, the city government reaffirms its vision of cultivating a motivated, disciplined and people-centered workforce that remains the backbone of effective governance.

Joining the mayor during the awarding rites were members of the PRAISE committee to include Vice Mayor Beng Climaco, Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Mayor Celso Lobregat and City Administrator Percival Ramos. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)