CEBU, PHILIPPINES — Every recognition and award share a profound truth: they celebrate hard work, spark inspiration, and honor dedication. They emblemize the journey behind success, and give meaning to the verity that molded it to form.
For The Freeman’s ProgreCebu Awards, the Dilaab Trophy is more than a trophy: it is a tribute to individuals, institutions, and destinations whose vision and dedication continue to shape Cebu into one of the country’s most progressive provinces.
For the past three years, The Freeman, together with the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has taken broad strides to honor the prime-movers of Cebu’s continuing success through the ProgreCebu Awards.
At the heart of every recognition is the Dilaab Trophy.
Dilaab, from the Cebuano word for blaze or burning flame, is symbolic of the passion that fuels progress. It features a rising flame that reflects the courage to lead, the determination to create change, and the desire to inspire others.
Like fire, progress begins with a spark. It grows through vision, perseverance, and the willingness to serve others. Every ProgreCebu awardee embodies this spark as leaders who create opportunities, institutions that strengthen communities, and destinations that redefine what Cebu has to offer.
The trophy also pays tribute to one of Cebu’s most enduring symbols, Lapu-Lapu. A leader remembered for his courage and unwavering resolve, Lapu-Lapu represents the strength and resilience of the Cebuano people. His image has been embraced by The Freeman for more than two decades, reflecting the newspaper’s commitment to fair and fearless journalism.
By incorporating his likeness into the Dilaab Trophy, The Freeman connects Cebu’s rich heritage with the leaders shaping its future.
Every element of the trophy carries meaning. The flame symbolizes passion, while the figure of Lapu-Lapu represents courage and leadership. Together, they remind recipients that true success is not only measured by achievements, but by the lives they touch, the communities they uplift, and the legacy they leave.
As Cebu continues to thrive as a center for business, tourism, culture, and innovation, the Dilaab Trophy stands as a lasting reminder that progress begins with people who dare to lead, inspire, and serve.
Because every great story starts with a spark, and because every spark has the power to become Dilaab.
Written by Andrew Matthew Ortoño/YRST
