As part of its 78th Charter Day celebration, Ormoc City honored 44 outstanding small businesses on Monday night, recognizing consumer favorites in food, services, and retail.
Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez led the awarding ceremony at the Ormoc City Stage, emphasizing the value of supporting local entrepreneurs who have earned the trust of residents and visitors.
“When people come to Ormoc, they often ask where the best places are to eat or stay. Now, you know where to go — whether you’re happy, sad, or celebrating,” Torres-Gomez said. “These are brands that are proudly Ormocanon, and they’ve served us for years. They are the lifeblood of our city, and we must continue to support them.”
Of the awardees, 27 were recognized in the restaurant category, 10 in services such as accommodations and salons, and seven in retail.
A highlight of the night was the “11 Feelings” category, which awarded businesses based on how they connect with customers’ emotions and experiences — from breakup food and date places to happy birthday cakes and comfort food.
The city also honored five enterprises and two individuals for innovation in business, including Entrepreneur of the Year awardee Froilan Celeste, owner of Yoyi’s Cakes and Pastries — a family-run business that started in 1996 and now has six branches across Leyte and Southern Leyte.
The celebration served not only as a commemoration of Ormoc’s charter but also as a tribute to the creativity, resilience, and heart of its small business community.