LGU-Bayambang's recipients of Matalunggaring Award for this year, 2026, is as usual a highly varied mix. They include the town's longest-serving mayor with impactful projects and achievements; a consul/diplomat, the town's first and so far the only one as far as we know; one school owner-administrator; a top elementary math teacher; a World War II hero and the town's first-ever pilot; a conservation biologist; three distinguished medical doctors (one an orthopedist, another a surgeon, and another a family physician and hospital owner); an international entertainment figure; and a successful businesswoman, mother, and community leader.
Dr. Mario B. Geronilla (1948–2013)
Doctor/Leader in Orthopedics
From his humble beginnings in his hometown of Bayambang,
Dr. Mario B. Geronilla rose to become one of the country’s most distinguished
orthopedic surgeons. He served as Chairman of the Department of Orthopedics at
East Avenue Medical Center from 1995 to 2010, and later at the Philippine
General Hospital from 2010 to 2013. His exemplary leadership extended to key
roles in the Philippine Orthopaedic Association, as Chairman of the Philippine
Board of Orthopedics, and as President of the Philippine Orthopaedic Society
for Sports Medicine (POSSM) from 2003 to 2004 and the Philippine Orthopaedic
Trauma Society (POTS) from 2009 to 2010. These societies are specialized
subspecialty organizations under the Philippine Orthopaedic Association (POA),
promoting specialized care in sports medicine and trauma.
He also served as the national representative to the Asia
Pacific Orthopaedic Association (APOA) and as Coordinator of the Diliman Orthopaedic Residency Linkage among
leading medical institutions.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Geronilla
was a dedicated educator and mentor, shaping generations of medical
practitioners. Deeply rooted in his hometown, he regularly led medical and
surgical missions in Bayambang, providing free services, medicines, and
equipment to underserved communities.
A devoted family man and a man of unwavering
integrity, he is remembered for his excellence, compassion, and lifelong
commitment to service. His enduring legacy continues to inspire both the
medical community and the people of Bayambang.
Atty. Augusto G. Mamaril
Bayambang’s First and So Far Only Diplomat
Born on October 23, 1933, in Bayambang, Atty. Augusto
G. Mamaril was raised in a family of educators who instilled in him the values
of discipline, integrity, and service. As valedictorian of Bayambang National
High School, he laid the foundation for a distinguished career in law, public
service, and diplomacy.
He began his career at the Department of Trade and
Industry and later joined the foreign service, serving as Commercial Attaché in
Philippine embassies in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,
Rome, Italy, and Cologne, Germany.
He eventually retired as Consul General in the Netherlands, where he advanced
Philippine interests and extended support to Filipino communities abroad.
Widowed at an early age, he raised his four daughters
with strength and integrity, later building a blended family grounded in love
and respect. His life reflects unwavering dedication to public service, deep
commitment to family, and pride in being a true Bayambangueño.
Dr. Richard P. Olalia
Surgery Expert
Dr. Richard P. Olalia exemplifies excellence rooted in
discipline and proudly anchored in Bayambang. A distinguished academic
achiever, he graduated as Valedictorian in high school and Salutatorian in
elementary. He earned his medical degree from the University of Santo Tomas and
completed his residency in General Surgery at Cardinal Santos Medical Center.
He currently serves as Section Chief of General
Surgery at Cardinal Santos Medical Center, where he leads the management of
complex surgical cases, mentors emerging surgeons, and upholds the highest
standards of patient care—placing him at the forefront of one of the country’s
premier medical institutions.
Beyond his professional titles, Dr. Olalia’s work
reflects an unwavering commitment to saving lives and advancing the medical
profession. He stands as a true embodiment of Bayambangueño excellence,
inspiring future generations to pursue distinction and service.
Ms. Cresencia B. Honrado Fortunato
Most Outstanding
Elementary Mathematics Teacher Nationwide
Ms. Cresencia B. Honrado-Fortunato made history when
she was recognized as the country’s Most Outstanding Elementary Mathematics
Teacher (First Prize) in 1983. The award was conferred in Malacañang by no
less than former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., marking the first time a
teacher from Bayambang and the province of Pangasinan received such a
prestigious national distinction.
The award noted her role as adviser-coach of six
pupils who were division, congressional, and district quiz bee winners in
Elementary Mathematics, and for inspiring her pupils to engage in science
activities that led to the qualification of one of them for admission to the
Philippine Science High School;
…her dedication in producing various instructional
materials, equipment, and other teaching devices that have contributed to the
improvement of mathematics instructions in her school;
…and her studies--on her own initiative--on the
competence of elementary mathematics teachers in Bayambang I and for her action
research on improving the computational skills of Grade V pupils in own her
school.
She was also a prolific writer on the subject of
mathematics and mathematics teaching, and her unselfish devotion to her duty as
a teacher and teacher-trainor that has carried her various certificates of
proficiency and recognition.
Her legacy reflects a profound passion for teaching
and a steadfast commitment to excellence, bringing pride to Bayambang and
serving as a lasting inspiration to educators.
Atty. Diosdado R. Mendoza, DBA
Educator
Atty. Diosdado R. Mendoza, DBA, is a distinguished
educator, public servant, and institution-builder. As President and owner of
St. Camillus College of Manaoag, he has established a comprehensive educational
system that nurtures not only academic excellence but also socially responsible
and community-oriented citizens.
He likewise served as Regional Director of the Bureau
of Internal Revenue, where he strengthened institutional systems, enhanced
operational efficiency, and upheld the highest standards of professionalism in
public service. His leadership is marked by integrity, accountability, and a
steadfast commitment to delivering meaningful results and fostering public
trust.
Beyond his contributions to education and governance,
he is a dedicated advocate of cultural preservation. His life’s work embodies a
profound commitment to nation-building through education, principled
governance, and cultural stewardship.
Donita Rose Ramos Cavett-Palad
Excellence in Media, Arts, and Cultural Representation
Donita Rose Ramos Cavett-Palad is an internationally recognized
Filipino-American media personality whose career spans television, film, and
global broadcasting. As a former MTV Asia VJ, actress, and television host, she
became one of the most familiar Filipina faces across Southeast Asia,
showcasing talent, intelligence, and cultural pride on an international stage.
Her early success in Philippine entertainment and her later work abroad reflect
a rare versatility and enduring relevance in the media industry.
Proud of her Pangasinense roots through her mother’s lineage from
Bayambang, Donita has consistently carried her heritage with pride. Beyond
entertainment, she has expanded her influence into culinary arts as a corporate
chef in the United States, promoting Filipino cuisine and culture to a broader
global audience. Her ability to evolve across industries highlights her
adaptability and commitment to excellence.
More than her achievements, Donita’s life reflects resilience, faith,
and authenticity. Whether on screen, in the kitchen, or in her personal
advocacies, she represents the best of Filipino talent and values. Her unwavering
connection to her roots despite her global success makes her a true embodiment
of pride and excellence.
Dr. Erlinda de Guzman Lagoy Luna, MD, FPAFP
Medical Doctor of Distinction
Dr. Erlinda De Guzman Lagoy Luna is a distinguished physician whose life
has been defined by compassion, service, and professional excellence. A native
of Bayambang, she pursued her medical degree with dedication and went on to
become a Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians. As Founding
President of its Quezon City Chapter, she helped strengthen the practice of
family medicine and elevate standards of patient care.
In 2000, she was recognized as Top Outstanding Physician in Community
Service (TOPICS) for her service in numerous depressed areas all over the
country.
Throughout her long career, Dr. Luna has remained committed to making
healthcare accessible to those in need. Through her leadership in medical
organizations and her work with Undying Wishes of Pinoys, Inc., she has
spearheaded numerous medical, dental, and surgical missions that have served
thousands of underserved Filipinos, including communities in her hometown. Her
contributions have earned her national recognition for outstanding community
service.
Even at 85, Dr. Luna continues to embody a life of purpose and
generosity. Her unwavering dedication, quiet strength, and enduring compassion
have touched countless lives. She stands as a shining example of how a life
devoted to service can create a lasting and meaningful legacy.
Atty. Jaime Payomo Junio
Bayambang’s Longest Serving Mayor
Atty. Jaime Payomo Junio remains one of the most influential leaders in
the history of Bayambang, having served as Municipal Mayor for nearly 24 years
from 1962 to 1986. His long and steady leadership provided stability and
direction during a crucial period of growth, making him the longest-serving
mayor of the municipality.
Under his administration, Bayambang experienced significant progress in
infrastructure, public health, and economic development. Key projects included
the construction of the public market, municipal facilities such as the old Municipal
Annex Bldg., barangay roads, barangay bridges, water systems, barangay health
centers, and the establishment and eventual relocation and expansion of the
town hospital, now the Bayambang District Hospital. His leadership also
strengthened and improved public information, peace and order, disaster
response, and other essential services for the community.
Other interesting accomplishments were the installation of a siren atop
the NAWASA tower and the erection of the Magsaysay monument in the public
plaza.
He also supported the development of musical talents by forming music
groups. In mid-1970s, the Bayambang Teachers Chorale gained national
recognition, performing on national television programs, most notably on the
Joe Quirino Show, bringing pride and recognition to the municipality.
Recognized a least five times as one of the most outstanding mayors up
to the national level, Atty. Junio’s legacy continues to shape the foundation
of modern Bayambang. His vision, dedication, and commitment to public service
remain a lasting inspiration to future generations of leaders.
Leonora Perez Sagun
Entrepreneurship, Community Service, Motherhood
Leonora Perez Sagun is a distinguished entrepreneur and community leader
whose life reflects perseverance, compassion, and service. From humble
beginnings in Bayambang, she built a successful portfolio of businesses,
including rice mills, agricultural supply ventures, and commercial enterprises,
contributing significantly to the local economy and providing livelihood
opportunities to many.
Beyond her achievements in business, Mrs. Sagun is deeply committed to
community service. To date, she has initiated 10 community service projects. As
an active member and current President of the Rotary Club of Bayambang, she has
led and supported numerous humanitarian initiatives, including medical
missions, educational assistance, disaster response efforts, and programs for
vulnerable sectors. Her work embodies the principle of “service above self.”
Equally devoted to her family, she has raised children who reflect the
values of discipline, integrity, and excellence. Balancing entrepreneurship,
public service, and motherhood, she stands as a model of strength and
generosity.
Major Claro J. Camacho
Aide-de-Camp, Aviation Pioneer
Major Claro J. Camacho is remembered as a courageous son of Bayambang
who served with distinction during one of the most challenging periods in
Philippine history. As aide-de-camp to a key American guerrilla leader during
World War II, Lieutenant Edwin Ramsey, he played a vital role in coordinating
intelligence, communications, and operations within the resistance movement in
Central Luzon. His service required not only skill, but extraordinary bravery
and resolve.
Operating under constant threat and severe deprivation, Major Camacho
contributed to the success of guerrilla efforts that supported the eventual
liberation of the Philippines. His role placed him at the heart of critical
missions that helped disrupt enemy operations and aid Allied forces. His
wartime service reflects a deep commitment to country and freedom.
After the war, he continued to serve the nation as a member of the
Philippine Air Force, becoming the first and only warplane pilot from
Bayambang. His life stands as a powerful symbol of courage, patriotism, and
pioneering achievement, inspiring pride among his fellow Bayambangueños.
Dr. Jayson Ibanez
Conservation Biologist
Dr.
Jayson Ibanez is a conservation biologist who has spent nearly three decades
working to protect the Philippine eagle and its forest habitat. As Director of
the Philippine Eagle Foundation since 2012, he has led nationwide research and
conservation efforts while also teaching at the University of the Philippines
Mindanao and University of the Philippines Los Baños. His work bridges science,
education, and field practice, grounded in his roots in Bayambang.
His
scientific contributions include pioneering long-term studies on eagle
behavior, survival, and habitat using advanced tracking technologies, producing
research that now informs national conservation strategies. He also advanced a
“culture-based conservation” approach that integrates indigenous knowledge into
environmental planning, fostering more inclusive and community-driven
stewardship of natural resources.
Recognized both locally and internationally, Dr. Ibanez has received major conservation
awards and contributed extensively to scientific and public discourse. Beyond
research, his work supports broader public welfare by protecting forests that
function as watersheds and climate buffers, while creating community-based
livelihood and youth engagement programs. Through his roles as scientist,
mentor, and advocate, he continues to promote conservation as both a scientific
pursuit and a shared social responsibility.
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