BAGUIO CITY – The Society of Outstanding Citizens of Baguio is calling on the public to submit their nominations of the 2024 Search for Outstanding Citizens of Baguio (SOCOB ) across different categories, including community service, culture and arts, business, and professional service during the Kapihan sa Baguio held at the Philippine Information Agency-Cordillera Office on April 17, 2024.
The event was spearheaded by President Joel Arthur P. Tibaldo, who called for nominations and highlighted the significance of recognizing individuals who contribute positively to the community.
One notable aspect of this year’s search is the extension of nominations to encompass culture and sports under the Arts and Culture category. This move aims to acknowledge excellence not only in traditional cultural endeavors but also in the realm of sports, broadening the scope of recognition within the city.
Chairing the 2024 Search, Fr. Jess Hechanova emphasized the need for a comprehensive handbook to streamline the nomination process. The handbook aims to standardize documentation requirements and clarify vague terms, ensuring fairness and efficiency in the selection process. Moreover, it serves as a guide for future searches, facilitating easier verification and judgment.
Dr. Elma Donaal, a past president, described the nomination categories, underscoring the search’s inclusive nature. Whether in community service, professional endeavors, culture, and the arts or business, the search seeks individuals who demonstrate integrity, character, and a commitment to the betterment of Baguio City.
Teacher Gloria Leal outlined the strict requirements for nominees and nominators, including various clearances and supporting documents. Non-compliance with submission deadlines could result in disqualification, emphasizing the need for thoroughness and timeliness in the application process.
They also highlighted the importance of long-standing residency in Baguio City, a prerequisite for eligibility.
Each category in the search boasts specific criteria for judging, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process. From public service to business excellence, nominees are evaluated based on their impact, innovation, and character.
Retired Judge Clarita Tabin stressed the importance of objectivity in nominations, urging nominators to understand the individuals they propose thoroughly. “Dapat yung nominator kilalang-kilala, pero sana huwag masyadong subjective na pagka-friend at paghindi siya na nakuha, sasama ang loob, hindi lang sa SOCOB. Dapat maging objective din sana so that we would be very open about what the judging committee will come up with; that is why it is very important ang role ng validating committee.”
Despite the significant number of nominees received annually, only a few emerge as Outstanding Citizens of Baguio. Last year’s statistics reveal the careful selection process, with only three individuals awarded the prestigious title due to strict criteria and document requirements.
As the search continues to uncover hidden gems within the city, Tibaldo urged community members to actively participate in identifying deserving individuals, “Naniniwala ako na ang siyudad ng Baguio ay maraming outstanding citizens ng Baguio, karamihan nga lang ay andiyan na silent majority na tinatawag. Tulungan niyo po kami i identify yung mga kilala ninyo na makakatulong sa siyudad ng Baguio.”
Donaal emphasized that the recognition as an outstanding citizen comes with great responsibility, symbolizing accomplishment and ongoing commitment to serve and inspire others.
The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2024, with forms available at the Office of the City Mayor and downloadable forms from the Society of Outstanding Citizens of Baguio’s Facebook page.
Indeed, the legacy of Baguio’s outstanding citizens is a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit and commitment to excellence, ensuring a brighter future for future generations. By Jackielyn U. Reyes
