PAMPANGA — The provincial government marked its 454th founding anniversary with the annual Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (MOKA), recognizing 23 individuals and institutions for excellence across diverse fields, including arts, science, public service, culture, business, and global leadership.
Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda led the ceremony, joined by board members, department heads, past MOKA awardees, and local leaders. The event underscored the province’s continued commitment to celebrating Kapampangans who bring honor to the province and the country.
This year’s roster of awardees reflects a wide spectrum of achievements—from law enforcement and education to technology, heritage preservation, and overseas service.
2025 MOKA Awardees
- Law Enforcement: Lt. Col. Aris B. Gonzales
- Education: Marissa P. Fajardo
- Sports: Oliver S. Tumang
- Government Service: Lany L. Manaloto, RM, BSM
- Entrepreneurship: Engr. Joliber P. Mapiles, PhD
- Music: Jose Irwin M. Nucum
- Performing Arts: Jayson G. Pabalan
- Institutional Award – Performing Arts: Band 94 Pandacaqui
- Visual Arts: Richard G. Gabriel
- Culinary Arts: Jose Antonio Miguel R. Melchor
- Culture & Heritage: Joel P. Mallari
- Institutional Award – Culture & Heritage: Aguman Kalalangan Sulat Kapampangan
- Agriculture: Dr. Richard S. Torno
- Science & Technology: Mudjekeewis D. Santos, PhD
- Mass Media: Kara Patria David-Cancio
- Youth Service: John Roniel A. Canimo
- Social Services: Atty. Aris L. Gulapa
- Institutional Award – Social Services: Minalin Development Foundation, Inc.
Global & Emerging Leaders Category
- Overseas Filipino Worker: Dr. Michael M. Manio, MD, MHPED, PhD, FHEA, PCAP
- Public Health: Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi, MD, FAFN
- Medicine: Maria Teresa F. Sanchez-Tolosa, MD
- Architecture: Ar. Normandy N. Canlas, UAP, ASEAN AR, APEC AR, FRIA, Int’l Assoc.-AIA
- Business: Simplicio P. Umali Jr.
During the program, Governor Pineda and Vice Governor Pineda also conferred the title Adopted Son of Pampanga on DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian in recognition of his sustained support for vulnerable communities in the province.
“Luguran taya ing probinsyang pakamalan; luguran taya la ding kapara tang Kapampangan,” Governor Pineda said, urging continued unity and service among Kapampangans.
Provincial officials emphasized that the awardees exemplify excellence, compassion, and leadership—values that define the Kapampangan identity.
The provincial government thanked this year’s awardees for raising the prestige of Pampanga both nationally and globally.
