Swiss Philantropist hailed in the Philippines

In the course of the session, he was not only presented with a ceremonial Plaque of Appreciation, but the Board also unanimously adopted Legislative Resolution No. 1180-2025—an official acknowledgment of his outstanding and, over many years, consistently sustained social work in the Province of Davao del Norte.

Sir Stephan Urs Breu is Area Commander Switzerland and Commander of the Bodensee Chapter of the Knights of Rizal, the Republic of the Philippines’ only state-recognized order of knighthood. He is also the Founder and Co-President of the José Rizal Heritage Fund and the José Rizal Heritage Award organization.

With this honor, the Province of Davao del Norte recognizes a figure who, with great consistency and foresight, has worked on behalf of disadvantaged communities—especially Indigenous Peoples (IP) and children in remote upland settlements.

Recognition for Sustainable Development Work in Gupitan and Kapalong

In the Plaque of Appreciation—signed by Vice Governor Hon. Clarice T. Jubahib and Governor Hon. Edwin I. Jubahib—Sir Stephan’s “outstanding projects and invaluable contributions to the Province of Davao del Norte” are highlighted in particular.

The commendation refers especially to a wide range of concrete, infrastructure-based and social measures that were implemented with his involvement and with the support of partners from Switzerland and the Philippines. These include the construction of teachers’ cottages in remote mountain villages; the establishment of small multi-purpose halls and mini-gyms for school sports, assemblies, and community events; the installation of rainwater-harvesting systems, water filters, water reservoirs, and jetmatic pumps to secure access to safe drinking water; as well as the implementation of numerous feeding programs for children in public elementary schools in Gupitan and Kapalong. These projects have noticeably improved the quality of life for learners, teachers, and families in the remote barangays and make a measurable contribution to educational equity, health, and social cohesion.

Legislative Resolution No. 1180-2025: Highest Recognition by the Provincial Council

Legislative Resolution No. 1180-2025, unanimously adopted by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao del Norte, records the particular significance of this commitment. It recognizes Sir Stephan Urs Breu as a partner of the Province whose engagement goes far beyond sporadic assistance and is designed for long-term, sustainable development.

The Resolution emphasizes in particular the exemplary combination of private initiative, international partnership, and local implementation; the decisive contribution to advancing indigenous communities and rural schools; and the importance of his work as a model of solidarity-driven development cooperation that is grounded in the real needs of the people.

Regarding the dual honor, Sir Stephan Urs Breu stated:

“I regard this recognition by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Plaque of Appreciation as a great honor—and at the same time as an obligation. It does not belong to me alone, but to all partners, friends, and supporters in Switzerland and in the Philippines who, over many years, have invested trust, time, and resources. Above all, it belongs to the people of Gupitan, Kapalong, and the indigenous communities who, despite difficult living conditions, preserve courage, dignity, and hope.” He continued: “Our shared goal is that children can learn, that teachers can work well, and that entire village communities gain access to water, protection, and prospects. The Province of Davao del Norte has become a second home to me. This recognition encourages me to continue the chosen path of partnership-based, long-term cooperation with unwavering consistency.”

Values-Driven Leadership in the Spirit of José Rizal

In the laudatory remarks, it was emphasized that Sir Stephan Urs Breu, through his engagement, embodies key values also associated with the legacy of Philippine national hero Dr. José Rizal: service to one’s fellow human beings, solidarity across borders, education as the key to freedom and development, and the responsibility of civil society for a more just future.

His work as Area Commander of the Knights of Rizal in Switzerland, and as Co-President of the José Rizal Heritage Fund and the José Rizal Heritage Awards organization, builds a bridge between Philippine history, international civil society, and concrete development cooperation on the ground.

Symbol of a Long-Term Partnership

The combination of the Plaque of Appreciation and Legislative Resolution No. 1180-2025 represents one of the highest forms of recognition that the Province of Davao del Norte can confer upon international partners.

It expresses a clear signal: that social engagement across national borders is seen and valued; that local authorities and international partners can work together in genuine partnership; and that sustainable, values-based projects—such as those initiated and supported by Sir Stephan Urs Breu—make a concrete contribution to inclusive development and social peace.