An Official Recognition from the Sangguniang Panlungsod Ng Batangas for Batangas: My Sky and Earth

Through the support of my childhood friend and classmate, Doc Jun Acosta Berberabe, and with the help of Councilor Junjun Agno Gamboa, Maria G. Curia Lagdameo, and Dondon Dimacuha, as well as the entire city legislative body headed by Vice Mayor Alyssa Cruz-Atienza, I am deeply honoured and profoundly appreciative of the Certificate of Recognition for my book Batangas: My Sky and Earth.

Accompanied by my sister, Josie Serrano, and supporters, Lita and Shain, as well as my childhood friend’s nephew, Raphael Iñigo Gonzales, I was truly moved by this significant honour presented by the Sangguniang Panlungsod Ng Batangas during their legislative session on January 23, 2024. This recognition was further commemorated by Resolution No. 22-31 S. 2024, which states:

“A resolution of recognition and deep appreciation to Mr. Bong Serrano for his exemplary contribution in promoting the culture, tradition, and heritage, not only of the city of Batangas, but also of the nation as a whole, locally and internationally, through his published memoir, Batangas: My Sky and Earth.”

The signatories of this esteemed recognition include:

• Hon. Alyssa Renee A. Cruz, Vice Mayor
• Hon. Hamilton G. Blanco, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Jose Jonash Luis F. Tolentino, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Karlos Emmanjuel A. Buted, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Zester Carlo M. Hernandez, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Andrea Loise F. Macaraig, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Isidra “Ched” M. Atienza, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Nestor E. Dimacuha, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Lorenzo A. Gamboa Jr., Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Oliver Z. Macatangay, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Michael C. Villena, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Armando C. Lazarte, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Angelito Dondon A. Dimacuha, Liga ng mga Barangay President
• Hon. Nelson J. Chavez, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member
• Hon. Marcus Manuel D. Castillo, Sangguniang Panlungsod Pederasyon President

The full text of the resolution is available online on the official website of Batangas City.

“Once upon a time, we didn’t need any kind of permission to go into someone else’s house because we all knew each other in the neighborhood. We scaled the walls to visit and play with each other, bypassing the gate altogether!” Dondon Dimacuha began his introduction, pulling on heartstrings as he reminisced about our childhood days, capturing the essence of my book Batangas: My Sky and Earth.

Your words brought tears of joy to my eyes! I feel blessed to share with the world the uniqueness of our Batangueño heritage. I wrote this book to highlight the significance of our childhood and the Batangueño culture it carries. Thank you, Councilor Junjun Agno Gamboa, Dondon, and the entire Sangguniang Panlungsod Ng Batangas, for this special recognition!

During the presentation, I had the privilege of sharing my thoughts through a speech entitled, “The World Needs More Batangas.” This speech, along with further reflections, is published as part of my blog post, “Culture Thrives through Remembering and Writing About My Childhood in Batangas.” My aim is to inspire my fellow Batangueños to read more, write more, seek out my book, share their own stories, and together celebrate our rich heritage.

I extend my deepest gratitude to all who believed in me and my work. This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to every Batangueño whose stories and spirit fill the pages of my memoir. Thank you all for believing in me and my bit of functional art! Thank you for allowing me to share a piece of our beautiful culture with the world.

Let us continue to remember, write, and celebrate the unique tapestry of Batangas, ensuring our legacy thrives for generations to come.

Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat!

Bong Serrano