CALAMBA CIty, Laguna (PIA)– The legacy of then Laguna Governor Felicisimo San Luis continues more than three decades after his death under the Gawad Laguna program for young leaders.
Created in 1993 by the governor’s widow Felicidad Sagalongos-San Luis, Gawad Laguna seeks to recognize outstanding youth in Laguna and create future leaders who will continue his mission and goals. The late governor was known for his passion for empowering the youth.
Diosdado dela Rosa, a former youth awardee, said one of Gawad Laguna’s notable programs is the Gawad Felicisimo T. San Luis Para sa Namumukod-Tanging Kabataan ng Laguna awarding ceremony, which has been running since 1993.
“This year, 50 nominees from different towns and cities, including out-of-school youth, high school students, college students, and young professionals, have been nominated for the youth awards,” he said.
The Gawad Laguna for the youth is a six-month selection process held from June to December. It focuses on developing the well-being of the youth to become the foundation for serving the community. Awarding ceremonies are held in December.
In addition, Gawad Laguna Inc., which is behind the Gawad youth awards, collaborates with the Laguna Youth Development Affairs Office for the Gawad Sibol Laguna program. Gawad Sibol Laguna provides funding for flagship projects proposed by the youth to contribute to the community's development.
Gawad Laguna has produced successful public servants, politicians, and administrators in the province, including Vice Governor Katherine Agapay, Biñan City Mayor Walfredo Dimaguila Jr., and Pakil Mayor Vincent Soriano, who all started as Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) members before pursuing a political career. (AM/PIA-4A)