Former chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo added another recognition to his long list of laurels after being named this year's recipient of the Gawad Amerika's Lifetime Achievement Award in Public Service.

Panelo, a seasoned lawyer, joined the roster of former awardees like veteran singer Pilita Corrales and pageant producer Randy Salcedo, among others.

Having served as President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesperson, Panelo is now the legislative adviser and mentor of Senator Robin Padilla.

The host of the public affairs talk show Counterpoint has been practicing law since 1977, the same year he graduated from the University of the Philippines and passed the Bar examination.

The 21st Annual Gawad Amerika Awards Night will be held in Hollywood, California, USA over the weekend.

Gawad Amerika Awards Night, established in 2002, is an annual celebration to recognize the excellence of individuals and entrepreneurs in their areas of specialty.

The award-giving body is mainly composed of newspaper publishers and selected reputable community leaders.