ANGELES CITY—Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. was recognized as the Most Outstanding Kapampangan for the Government Service category for his “exemplary achievements and contributions to the betterment of the Kapampangan race.”
The MOKA committee, through its Vice-Chair and Pampanga 2nd District Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Mylyn Pineda Cayabyab, on December 4, 2023 notified Mayor Lazatin of his prestigious accolade, recognizing his exemplary contributions in furthering the ideals of the Kapampangan.
“Being awarded for my efforts in public service has never been the goal but, to me, this award is a testament that I have been doing a good job as a public servant,” Lazatin said.
“Helping our constituents, especially those coming from the marginalized sector, and ensuring that they receive the most efficient care and service from their government is enough of an award,” he furthered.
The MOKA awards night will be held at the Kingsborough International Convention Center on December 11, 2023.
Lazatin, during his two-term administration, was also able to bag various awards and recognition including Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) 2023, Gawad Makabata Award 2023, SubayBAYANI 2023, 23rd Gawad Kalasag, Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance 2022, and Good Financial Housekeeping in 2022.
His governance focused mostly in developing healthcare, education, business and culture preservation in Angeles City, pushing for modernized health facilities, new classrooms and school gears for students, promotion of locally-made products, and establishment of various platforms for the local artists to further advocate the Kapampangan heritage.
It could be remembered that in 2011, Mayor Lazatin’s late father, the then First District Rep. Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin was also chosen to merit the same award, also in the field of Government Service.