Manila – The Philippine Racing Commission (Philracom) inducted 15 distinguished personalities into its Hall of Fame, including Herminio "Hermie" Esguerra, during a ceremony at the Manila Diamond Hotel Grand Ballroom last Saturday. Esguerra, known for owning the stallions "Oh Oh Seven" and "Quaker Ridge," was among the prominent figures honored. In his acceptance speech, Esguerra expressed gratitude to Philracom and its chairman, Reli de Leon, for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to the growth of horseracing.
According to Philippines News Agency, The induction also included legendary Jose "Pepe" Saulog, internationally experienced jockey Joe Noel Camu, multiple Jockey of the Year Jesse Guce, Patricio "Pati" Dilema, and Jonathan "Unoh" Hernandez. Other awardees were the late Manuel "Maning" Henson, represented by Ray Henson; Ruben Tupas; Rolando "Rolly" Rojas, owner of Strong Material and Presidential Gold Cup champion Real Top; the late Enrique "Henry" Cojuangco, represented by Enrique "Kit" Cojuangco Jr.; Aristeo "Putch" Puyat; and Jose "Peping" Cojuangco.
Former Philracom chairman Antonio Manuel "Tonette" Lagdameo, now the Permanent Ambassador of the Philippines to the United Nations, was recognized for his innovations in local horseracing. His award was received by his daughter, Senior Undersecretary Ma. Regina Victoria Lagdameo. The late actor and horseracing enthusiast Ronald Allan "FPJ" Poe, represented by his grandson Bryan Poe Llamanzares, and Jose "Bebo" Quiroz were also posthumously inducted.
Philracom chairman Reli de Leon congratulated all honorees, acknowledging their significant contributions to the local horseracing industry. He also emphasized the Commission's commitment to recognizing notable personalities in future Hall of Fame editions, especially as Philracom approaches its golden anniversary next year.
