BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City Government has opened nominations for the “Be the Change Award 2026,” an annual recognition honoring Bacolodnons who have demonstrated outstanding acts of kindness, integrity, and service to their communities.
The award, established under City Ordinance No. 1042, or the “Be the Change Ordinance,” recognizes the city’s “quiet heroes” whose selfless efforts have made a positive impact on the lives of others.
Residents are encouraged to nominate individuals or groups who exemplify good citizenship through compassion, honesty, volunteerism, and dedication to community welfare.
“These are the people who quietly make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to building a better Bacolod,” said Councilor Celia Flor, author of the ordinance.
The recognition program is open to individuals and groups whose work inspires positive change through public service, humanitarian efforts, advocacy, and initiatives promoting social responsibility and community development.
Nominations will be accepted until June 1, 2026.
The city said nomination forms may be submitted through an online portal, while inquiries may be directed to the Bacolod City Communications Office through its Facebook page or via email at cflor@bacolodcity.com.
The “Be the Change” program was institutionalized in 2023 following the passage of City Ordinance No. 1042, which was signed on July 4, 2023 by former Bacolod mayor and now Lone District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez.
Under the ordinance, the city recognizes the importance of promoting positive values and honoring citizens who demonstrate integrity, kindness, and courage in confronting corruption and other wrongful practices.
The ordinance also created the Bacolod City Special Recognition and Citation Committee, which oversees the annual search and selection of awardees whose actions serve as examples for the community.
The Bacolod City Public Information Office serves as the committee’s secretariat.
City officials said the initiative supports Bacolod’s vision of becoming a clean, healthy, resilient, peaceful, and progressive city anchored on good governance and empowered by responsible and compassionate citizens./PN
