THE late Mayor Alipio “Al” Fernandez, Jr. was conferred the title of “Pinablin Ama Na Dagupan” by Sanggunian Panlungsod (SP) at Metroplaza on August 10.

The title was accorded posthumously in a resolution during a special session of the SP following the unanimous approval of a resolution authored by ABC president Bryan Kua.

Since Mayor Fernandez’s demise on August 9, department heads led by Atty. Farah Decano urged the city council to confer on Mayor Fernandez the title ”Pinablin Ama Na Dagupan” in recognition of his achievements, accomplishments and contributions to the city in his various capacities as a public servant.

Fernandez served as councilor, vice mayor and mayor from 1992 to 2010.

Under his stewardship, Dagupan City was cited Most Business-Friendly LGU by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with German Technical Cooperation in 2009, Best Component City Disaster Coordinating Council in 2009, UNICEF’s Child-Friendly City Leadership Award in 1991, among others.

Among citations he received: Most Supportive City Mayor in Sports Development (1988), Most Supportive City Mayor to Non-Formal Education (1997), Most Supportive City Mayor in the Implementation of Nutrition Programs (1996-1997), Progressive Alliance of Citizens for Democracy’s Most Outstanding City Mayor – Urban Category (1995) and the Department of Interior and Local Government’s Outstanding City Mayor – Urban Category (1994).

His legacy includes the establishment of City Museum, City Library, People’s Astrodome, Senior Citizen Building, City Health Office, PNP Building, Market Building and Welcome Arches to the city.

“Napakalaking tulong ang naibigay nila sa aming mga barangay captains. He was a mentor to all of us. He was always there to help us whenever we faced challenges. He was like a father to us,” said Kua.

“Karapat-dapat lang na igawad ang parangal na ito sa isang lider na mabait, maka-Diyos at makatao. Isang tunay na Ama na lingkod bayan, at nag-aasikaso sa lahat ng kanyang mga anak,” said Councilor Jose Tamayo.

He (Fernandez) was a true father to every Dagupeno. We wish to thank the barangay captains, headed by ABC President Bryan Kua, for pushing this resolution. I am sure that the family of the late Mayor Al Fernandez will appreciate this gesture,”, Majority Floor Leader Councilor Maybelyn Fernandez, who presided over the special session.

A copy of the resolution was given to the late mayor’s family. (With report from CIOVDV)

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