Tagaytay City — A bar topnotcher and a young chess grandmaster were among the recipients of the awards in the 2009 Gawad Heneral Emilo Aguinaldo: Natatanging Parangal sa Rebolusyonaryong Caviteño, the most coveted recognition given by the Cavite provincial government to Caviteños who excelled in their chosen field.

Last year’s bar exams first-placer Judy Lardizabal, the first Caviteña to top the bar, and World’s Youngest Chess Grandmaster Wesley So bested the Gawad’s Maliksing Kabataan category. Also an awardee in this category is youth leader Aidel Paul Belamide.

Cavite Gov. Ayong S. Maliksi handed the gold medals to the awardees during the ceremonies held Friday night at Taal Vista Hotel, this city. The event was attended by provincial government officials, representatives from the judiciary, business, youth, civic and non-government organizations (NGOs).

Also present at the awarding ceremonies was Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, who was the guest speaker.

The Gawad’s highest category, which is Dakilang Caviteño Award, was bestowed on national scientist Dr. Teodulo M. Topacio, Jr.