DAVAO CITY — First Congressional District Rep. Paolo Z. Duterte was cited as "Leadership Achiever as Public Servant" in the Elite Business and Leadership Awards ceremony at Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City on 18 December.

Duterte thanked the award-giving body and regarded his award as a shared success for Davaoeños and the Filipino people.

"The recognition of my office's work is not our end goal; it is the improvement of the lives of the Filipinos we serve," he added.

The Elite Business & Leadership Awards honors and acknowledges the distinctive, dedicated, and genuine leadership of accomplished leaders globally, providing them with a professional boost to strengthen their influence.

"This [award] is for the Dabawenyos and the Filipino people who have put their trust and confidence in our public service. This signifies the effectiveness of our partnership with our local and national leaders as we bring our programs and services closer to Filipino families," Duterte said.

Last month, he was also recognized as "Honorary Congressman of the Year" in the Nation Builders and Mosliv Awards ceremony in Manila.

He received recognition for crafting several legislative measures that contributed significantly to the country's sustainable development.

For the lawmaker, an unspoken qualification upon entering public service and throughout their tenure is the commitment to enhancing the public's well-being and instigating positive transformations.

"Our priority is community service and ensure human security," Duterte said, adding that, his principles come from his upbringing in a secure family and his belief that having a blessed life must be spent well serving others.