BAGUIO CITY – City officials recently commended and congratulated Rafael ‘Paeng’ Valencia for being conferred the Special Recognition–Individual Category Award during the 24th Gawad Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan (KALASAG) for Excellence in Disaster risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Humanitarian Assistance at the awarding ceremony held last December 13, 2024 at the Philippine International convention Center (PICC), Pasay City.
In a resolution, local legislators stated that the local government is likewise immensely honored to extend its recognition to a private individual who has continually dedicated his time, resources and passion to help provide a safer, resilient and adoptive community.
Baguio’s pride and very own Rafael Valencia was awarded the Gawad KALASAG Special Award–Individual Category during the awarding ceremony held on December 13, 2024 at the PICC, Pasay City.
He was recognized for his significant and unwavering commitment to building disaster and contributions and innovative policies, technical advancement and transformative strategies on climate change and disaster risk reduction management that has profound and lasting impact in the city and neighboring communities.
Established in 1998, the Gawad KALASAG Search for Excellence in Risk Reduction and Humanitarian Assistance is a recognition and award scheme for various stakeholders who promote and implement disaster risk reduction and management, climate change and adaptation and humanitarian assistance programs that protect and shield high risk communities against extreme hazards and render them capable of addressing their vulnerability.
Further, the Gawad KALSAG plaque of recognition received by Valencia reads: ‘Mr. Valencia epitomizes the qualities of a true servant leader, inspiring others not only to follow his example but to embrace the values of selflessness, dedication and service to society. His tireless efforts serve as a catalyst for positive change, transforming communities into safer, more adaptive and resilient ones. Mr. Valencia continues to make a remarkable difference, shaping a future where resilience and preparedness are woven into the fabric of every community.’
The 24th Gawad KALASAG awarding ceremony was presided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., who personally handed the plaques of recognition, assisted by Defense Secretary and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Chairperson Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr..
Copies of the approved resolution will be transmitted to Valencia for information, guidance, ready reference and further needed action. By Dexter A. See
