CITY OF MALOLOS – In an incredible display of dedication to public service, the late former Mayor Eleanor Joni Villanueva-Tugna was honored with the prestigious title of “Pinaka Natatanging Babaeng Lingkod Bayan sa Panahon ng Pandemya” during the Gawad Medalyang Ginto 2024 that took place at The Pavilion in Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center here on March 12, 2024, where Tugna’s legacy was celebrated with great pomp and circumstance.
The Provincial Government of Bulacan bestowed this esteemed award upon Tugna in recognition of her outstanding service, as outlined in Sangguniang Panlalawigan Kapasiyahan Blg. 213-T’2024 – Kapasiyahang Nagbibigay ng Pinakamataas na Pagkilala at Parangal bilang Pinakanatatanging Babaeng Lingkod Bayan Ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan Ng Bulacan Sa Pangunguna ng Punong Lalawigan, Igg. Daniel R. Fernando at Pangalawang Punong Lalawigan Igg. Alexis C. Castro at lahat ng bumubuo ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Bulacan Kay Igg. Eleanor “Joni” Villanueva-Tugna, Dating Punong Bayan ng Bocaue, Bulacan, a resolution that acknowledges her as the most exceptional female public servant in the province, a title well-deserved for her tireless efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the many notable accomplishments of Tugna during this challenging time was the successful implementation of a mass testing program for frontliners and persons under investigation (PUIs). This initiative played a crucial role in curbing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting the community.
Governor Daniel R. Fernando commended Tugna’s unwavering commitment to public service, noting that even in the face of personal health challenges, she continued to serve her constituents with dedication and grace. Her legacy as a beacon of selflessness and dedication will forever be remembered in the hearts of the people of Bulacan.
Meanwhile, “Natatanging Babae 2023” title holder former Napocor President Ma. Gladys C. Sta. Rita personally turned over the title to Jonnah L. Garcia of the City of Malolos as “Natatanging Babae 2024” for her visionary entrepreneurial leadership, which revitalized and preserved the art of Puni Weaving through community collaboration, training and empowerment.
She is the owner of PUNIQUE Handicraft and was also awarded one of the Most Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2024 by Go Negosyo recently.
Meanwhile, other outstanding women in different fields were also recognized including Jonnah L. Garcia of the City of Malolos as “Natatanging Babae”; Meysulao Lady Warriors (MEYDYWA) headed by its President Jenneelyn Grace Flores of Calumpit for “Natatanging Samahang Pangkababaihan”; KPK-Malolos headed by President Maria Cristina S. Dionisio of the City of Malolos as “Matagumpay na KPK”; Maria Lourdes C. Marquez of Obando as “Matagumpay na Babaeng Mangangalakal”; Palmarina B. Tejuco of the City of Malolos as “Matagumpay na Babaeng Makakalikasan”; and Jasmin P. Lucas of Norzagaray as “Matagumpay na Babae sa Makabagong Pagnenegosyo”.
“Malugod na pagbati rin ang nais kong ipaabot sa mga natatanging kababaihang Bulakenyo na bibigyang pagkilala at parangal sa ating taunang Gawad Medalyang Ginto sa pangunguna ng minamahal nating yumaong Mayor Joni Villanueva-Tugna ng bayan ng Bocaue. Makakaasa po kayong patuloy ninyong makakatuwang ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Bulacan at patuloy tayong mangunguna sa implementasyon ng mga programang mangangalaga at maghahatid ng mas marami pang oportunidad para sa bawat Bulakenya”, Fernando said.
The governor also announced that all the 21 nominees will receive P10,000 each while he will double the cash prizes of the six awardees.
Also present during the awarding ceremony were Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro, Bocaue Mayor Eduardo J. Villanueva and Vice Mayor Atty. Sherwin Tugna who received the award on behalf his wife, former Mayor Joni, Matagumpay na Babaeng Mangangalaka 2020 Cristina C. Tuzon, guest of honor and one of PKKB Commissioners, and Dr. Eva M. Fajardo, Chairperson of PKKB.
