CEBU, PHILIPPINES — Cebu’s remarkable journey as one of the country’s leading centers for business, tourism, innovation, and culture took center stage as The Freeman, in partnership with the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), held the third ProgreCebu Awards at bai Hotel Cebu on July 22, 2026.
Now on its third year, the annual event has become a celebration of the people, institutions, destinations, and businesses that continue to move Cebu forward. More than simply recognizing achievements, the ProgreCebu Awards shines a spotlight on those whose vision, hard work, and commitment have helped strengthen the province’s economy, promote its culture, and create opportunities for more Cebuanos.
The gathering brought together leaders from government, business, tourism, hospitality, and the private sector, all united by a shared goal of celebrating the individuals and organizations shaping Cebu’s future.
A celebration of resilience and progress
Opening the evening, The Freeman Vice Chairman John Vicente G. Gullas reflected on the publication’s own journey over the last 107 years, drawing parallels between the newspaper’s story and Cebu’s continuing progress.
He said that true growth is never achieved without overcoming challenges and learning from difficult experiences.
“Who would you trust? Somebody who hides their mistakes or somebody who has been through it, learned from it, grown from it, and prospered from it?” Gullas said.
He stressed that resilience comes from embracing life’s struggles rather than avoiding them.
Gullas also reaffirmed The Freeman’s commitment to serving Cebu through every chapter of its history.
“We have been there with Cebu through its ups and downs, through its mistakes, through its success. And one lesson that I learned is love your shadows. When you’re passing the limelight, never forget the shadow behind you, because you wouldn’t be in that limelight without those shadows,” he said.
He ended his message with a promise that has long defined the newspaper’s relationship with the province.
“We will continue to be here for Cebu through every step of the way, because Cebu is The Freeman and The Freeman is Cebu.”
In a video message, Philippine Star President Miguel G. Belmonte described Cebu as one of the country’s strongest economic powerhouses, where business, manufacturing, exports, technology, tourism, and culture come together to create lasting opportunities.
He emphasized that the province’s success is driven not only by thriving industries but also by the entrepreneurs, institutions, and visionary leaders who continue to invest, innovate, and build for the future.
“Progress deserves recognition and excellence deserves to be celebrated,” Belmonte said.
He added that the ProgreCebu Awards is a celebration of a shared achievement.
“Progress is a shared triumph forged by individuals and institutions committed to investing, innovating, and creating lasting opportunities.”
Belmonte also pointed to Cebu’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide as proof that the province is steadily gaining recognition as a world-class tourism and culinary destination.
Meanwhile, MCCI President Barbara “Bambi” Gothong Tan highlighted the chamber’s continuing partnership with The Freeman, now on its third consecutive year.
She said honoring outstanding individuals and organizations inspires others to pursue excellence and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
“Recognition is important because it shines a light on stories that deserve to be told,” Tan said.
She added that every contribution—whether in business, tourism, education, public service, or community development—helps shape a better future for Cebu.
Cebu’s food scene earns global recognition
One of the evening’s highlights was the Michelin Appreciation Ceremony, which honored Cebu restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide.
The recognition further strengthens Cebu’s reputation as one of Asia’s rising culinary destinations and reflects the growing international appreciation for the province’s rich food culture.
Restaurants recognized under the Michelin Selected category were Abli Cebu, COCO, CUR8, DIP Nikkei, Enye by Chele Gonzalez, Esmén Wine Bar & Restaurant, House of Lechon, Lasa at Busay, Maya Mexican Restaurant, Socarrat Cebu, Soba Kamakura, and The Pig & Palm.
Also recognized were Cebu’s Bib Gourmand awardees—Abaseria Deli & Café, ATO-ATO, Lantaw Native Restaurant–Compostela, Pares Pares, Pares Batchoy Food House, and Sialo—for serving high-quality food at reasonable prices.
Representatives from several restaurants personally received appreciation plaques from The Freeman executives, General Manager Melandro Mendoza, Advertising Manager Janet Montenegro, and Editor-in-Chief Mr. Lucky Malicay, while the other Michelin-recognized establishments were likewise acknowledged for helping raise Cebu’s culinary profile on the global stage.
Honoring Cebu’s Champions
The heart of the ProgreCebu Awards was the recognition of four outstanding honorees whose achievements have made a lasting impact on Cebu’s development.
Chosen through a careful selection process by a panel of distinguished judges, each awardee was recognized for making significant contributions to the province’s growth across different sectors.
The Most Distinguished Destination Award was presented to the Municipality of Moalboal for its tourism campaign, Dagway sa Paraiso. Known worldwide for its famous sardine run, rich marine life, white-sand beaches, and thriving dive tourism, Moalboal continues to promote sustainable tourism while strengthening Cebu’s position as one of the country’s top travel destinations. The award was presented by The Freeman News Editor Fred P. Languido.
The Most Distinguished Individual Award was given to Jose Soberano III, chairman and chief executive officer of Cebu Landmasters Inc., for his visionary leadership in the real estate industry. Under his guidance, the company has expanded throughout the Visayas and Mindanao, creating investments, generating jobs, and helping transform regional cities through landmark developments. The recognition was presented by Marc Anthony Ynoc, Past President of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Most Distinguished Institution Award was conferred by EIC Lucky Malicay to International Pharmaceuticals Inc. (IPI), one of the country’s leading pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare manufacturers. Founded in Cebu, IPI has built a decades-long reputation for producing trusted healthcare and wellness products while contributing to local manufacturing, innovation, and employment.
Receiving the ProgreCebu Excellence Award was internationally acclaimed fashion designer Cary Santiago for his exceptional contribution to Cebu’s creative industry. Known for his world-class couture creations, Santiago has showcased Cebuano craftsmanship on international runways and red carpets, inspiring aspiring Filipino designers while proving that creativity can also drive economic growth and strengthen cultural identity. The award was presented by The Freeman GM Melandro Mendoza.
A shared commitment to Cebu’s future
Beyond the trophies and applause, the ProgreCebu Awards serves as a reminder that Cebu’s success is built through the combined efforts of people and organizations working toward a common goal.
This year’s honorees, from globally recognized restaurants and tourism destinations to visionary business leaders, respected institutions, and creative trailblazers, represent the many faces of Cebu’s continuing progress.
As the province strengthens its position in business, tourism, hospitality, manufacturing, and the creative economy, the ProgreCebu Awards celebrates those who continue to open doors, inspire innovation, and create opportunities for others.
Their stories show that progress is not the work of one individual or one industry alone. It is the result of many people working together to build a stronger, more competitive Cebu—one that continues to make every Cebuano proud and creates a brighter future for generations to come.
Written by Gie-Ann N. Tapic and Glaire Zhealo Colonia/JOB
