DOT Secretary Frasco Receives Prestigious Garbo sa Ormoc Award 2024

Photo courtesy of The Department of Tourism - Philippines

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary, Christina Garcia Frasco, was honored with the prestigious Garbo sa Ormoc Award 2024 during a special ceremony held on October 19 at the Ormoc Superdome in Leyte. The award, now in its 11th year, is a key highlight of Ormoc City’s 77th Charter Foundation Day celebrations, recognizing individuals who have brought pride to the Ormocanon community.

In her acceptance speech, Secretary Frasco reflected on the deep connection she shares with her hometown of Ormoc, recalling the lessons and values she gained from its close-knit community. “To be honored by the very community that helped shape my formative years is a distinction I will forever hold dear," she shared. She credited Ormoc for instilling in her the principles of perseverance and hard work, which have guided her throughout her political career—from her time as Mayor of Liloan, Cebu, to her current role as tourism secretary.

Frasco emphasized that these values continue to inspire her mission for inclusive tourism development across the Philippines. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., she expressed her commitment to ensuring that tourism reaches the most remote areas of the country, creating job opportunities and sustainable livelihoods for as many Filipinos as possible.

Photo courtesy of The Department of Tourism - Philippines

Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez expressed her deep appreciation for Frasco’s contributions to the city and the country. “You do us very proud,” Mayor Gomez said, underscoring the pride felt by the Ormocanon community for having one of their own achieve such prestigious recognition.

The Garbo sa Ormoc Awards, organized by the local government and the Ormoc Festival and Cultural Foundation, Inc., celebrates the achievements of outstanding Ormocanons, honoring their contributions and inspiring future generations. This year’s event gathered local leaders, artists, and key figures to celebrate the accomplishments of Ormoc’s finest.

Photo courtesy of The Department of Tourism - Philippines

Notable attendees included Congressman Richard Gomez of Leyte’s 4th District, Vice Mayor Leo Locsin Sr., Charter Day Executive Committee Chairman Jude Abenoja, and renowned Filipino designer Furne Amato, along with Secretary Frasco’s family members, among others.

The event serves as a testament to Ormoc’s ongoing commitment to celebrating excellence, fostering pride in the achievements of its people, and encouraging progress within the community.