Twenty two native city residents and many others coming from different places were bestowed outstanding honors as the city marked its Charter Day last July 1. The awarding ceremonies highlighted the celebration, the 43rd, since Tagbilaran became a city. Leading the awardees were the movers and shakers of this city's burgeoning business environment by building the first malls hereabouts. Frederick Ong of BQ Mall and Marlito Uy of Island City Mall fame were cited as business trendsetters. With their proven business acumen, the two transformed the city's skyline with the construction of the BQ Mall and Alturas Supermarket in downtown Tagbilaran. The two buildings form part of the city's urban canyon. Ong's father Ong Guat, one of the pioneering businessmen in this city even dating back to pre-war days through the Bohol Quality Store, was also cited as father of the year. Although, well-chair bound, he received the award personally from City Mayor Dan Neri Lim and The Most Reverend Leonardo Medroso, bishop of Tagbilaran.

Two Tagbilaran oldtimers Nazaria Matig-a Bantilan and Dolores Yap were named as mothers of the year. The men behind the rehabilitation of the old Agora, now known as Tagbilaran City Square , were honored as new investors. The three—Ricardo Brito, Juan Apostol and Ko Sum Beng were awarded for their significant contribution to convert an otherwise white elephant, that was the old Agora, into a burstling economic enterprise. A close friend of Mayor Lim, German philanthropist Hans Schoof, was awarded as faithful supporter of the city. He owns the high end Peacock Garden Luxury resort and Spa in Laya, Baclayon town. Deputy Mayor Mayor Uy, another Lim associate, was awarded for his outstanding community service. He managed the city's Botika sa Barangay program. Another businessman who owns the Fely's Jewelry and Pawnshop Norris Oculam was also cited for civil leadership in his capacity as former chairman of the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Warren Yap, Jr. was also awarded for topping the accountancy board three years ago.

Department heads that included Budget Officer Rosemarie Palma, City Treasurer Vicitacion Acero, City Auditor Teresita Irig, City Administrator Walter Toston, Reynaldo Calimbayan and City Engineer Pianicita Castolo were also cited for dedication and efficiency in public service. City Accountant Kurt Adolf Bungabong was honored for passing the Bar while in public service. Kagawad Faro Cabalit was also cited for dedication in public service. Lastly but not the least among the awardees was Audberto Ungay who was named Model Lungsuranon. Ungay, who is a barber by vocation was cited for his outstanding achievement for raising 12 children all by his own effort.