BAGUIO CITY — Five individuals were honored by the Baguio Filipino-Chinese community for their outstanding contributions to the government and community in Baguio City.
The awards were presented during the Dinner Reception Awards Night of the 28th annual Spring Festival 2026 celebration, in recognition of their dedication, service, and leadership that have strengthened community ties and uplifted lives.
The honoring of the five individuals was historic as it was attended by Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan himself at the Hotel Supreme Mall & Events Center, on February 18.
According to Executive Committee Peter Ng, through public service, community work, business, and social development, the awardees have become strong partners of the Filipino-Chinese Community in Baguio, helping to shape a more inclusive, active, and compassionate city.
With 35 years of public service under the Philippine Information Agency, Joseph B. Zambrano has dedicated his career to clear and responsible public communication. He also served as a former board member of the Philippine Red Cross Baguio, a member of the Regional Advisory Council of Police Cordillera, and is now the District 3 Director of Benguet Energy Corporation (BENECO).
Throughout his government service, he helped the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community relay important information to the public, strengthening understanding and civic engagement.
Arturo A. Flores in Community Service for being President of the Baguio Amateur Sports Improvement Council, has been a strong advocate for youth sports and grassroots development.
His organization has encouraged young people to stay active, disciplined, and engaged through sports. Beyond this, he has been a reliable partner of the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community, especially during the Spring Festival parades, where his group helps ensure order and coordination. His service reflects a deep commitment to youth empowerment and community cooperation.
In Community Service, Johan U. Teope, former Director of the Philippine Red Cross Baguio and Real Estate Lessor of Jarco Realty & Development Corporation, has long supported community service and volunteerism. He was instrumental during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic by voluntarily extending monetary assistance to support relief efforts in the city. He has also been a steady supporter of the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community, helping strengthen cooperation during major activities and events, reflecting a sincere commitment to service, solidarity, and community resilience.
As the current President of Tiok Lim Grand Mason Baguio and owner of Jac Seven Enterprises, Businessman Jacky Lim exemplifies how business leadership can serve the wider community. He has consistently supported initiatives of the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community through partnership, resources, and active participation. His role in both civic and business circles has helped bridge cooperation between groups, showing that entrepreneurship can go hand in hand with service, cultural support, and shared responsibility for community progress.
Lastly in Public Service, Betty Fangasan served as City Social Welfare and Development Officer from 1993 to 2022, dedicating nearly three decades to public service. She was recognized as Most Outstanding Local Social Welfare and Development Officer in 2003 and Best Social Worker in 1984.
During her years at City Social Welfare and Development Office, she worked closely with the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community in identifying individuals and families in need, helping connect compassion, resources, and timely support to those who needed it most.
Ng also expressed his deep gratitude to the community for supporting the joyful Spring Festival Grand Colorful Parade, to the city government officials who continue to support the Chinoy community, to the stakeholders and media groups. “This occasion would not have been possible without everyone who came together and worked together to bring about the good relationship between the Chinoy and the people of Baguio.”By Zaldy Comanda
