During the ceremony, the Consulate formally endorsed the decrees recognizing awards and prizes tied to the Valencian Community celebrations. October 9 marks a significant day when Alicante is highlighted for its notable contributions across multiple fields. Distinguished honorees include Pirula Arderius, the first woman to work as a journalist in Alicante, and Jesús Prado, formerly the director of INFORMATION. The recipients will be welcomed at the traditional corporate ceremony held at the Palau de la Generalitat on Sunday, ahead of the Civil Procession on October 9.
The awards for business and social merit highlight PLD Space, a landmark Elche-based company operating at the forefront of Europe’s aviation sector. The organization is pursuing the Miura 1 prototype flight and is planning a space transportation mission with Miura 5, targeted for 2024. The Valencian citrus industry is recognized for its pivotal role in the regional economy and its cultural contributions that tie together communities across the region. Its influence remains substantial in the Vega Baja and beyond, underscoring efforts toward food sovereignty in today’s climate challenges and the horizons ahead.
In the realm of cultural merit, two notable figures from the province are acknowledged. Antoni Miro, an Alcoy-based artist, is described by his contemporary Isabel Clara Simó as a restless creator who challenges conventions. Also honored is Christina of Middel, a globally renowned Alicante photojournalist who earned the National Photo Award in 2017 and who served as a curator for PhotoEspaña 2018, with years of work at INFORMATION.’
This scientific merit recognition goes to Carmen Najera, a professor of organic chemistry at the University of Alicante. Najera stands out as the first Spanish scientist to receive an award from the French Chemical Society for research focused on amino acid synthesis and bioactive molecules used in the development of new medicines.
Among the awarded professionals and groups, journalism receives strong support from autonomous governance. The Consell states that democracy and journalism are intertwined, noting that democracy cannot thrive without independent reporters. The long careers of pioneering journalists, including former INFORMATION directors, are celebrated. Figures such as Jesús Prado, Pirula Arderius, Francisco Pérez Puche, José María Arquimbau, and Vicente Hipólito are recognized for their years of service and their connection to INFORMATION.
In sports, the Generalitat’s medals of merit honor centennial achievements of football clubs CD Castellón, Hércules CF, and Elche CF, alongside the ‘pilotari’ Pascual Sanchis, sailing professional Iván Pastor, and basketball player Anna Gómez. The mention includes the historic first three titles won by the national team in 2021 and the 25-year milestones of the Valencia Community Sports Managers and Professionals Association (GEPACV).
All of the aforementioned recognitions fall within the broad category of Generalitat employees, celebrated during the fortieth anniversary celebrations of the Autonomy Statute. The Consulate expresses gratitude for the administration’s enduring commitment to public services, social rights, and the stewardship of land. In particular, thanks are extended to individuals such as Luis Lozano, Juan Cruz, and Daniel Matoses for their contributions to the public good.
In 2023, one of the Generalitat’s top distinctions goes to Oriolan poet Miguel Hernandez, posthumously honored during the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the author of Perito en lunas. The Consell notes that Hernandez is among the most universal writers of the Valencian landscape and an enduring emblem of the democratic values cherished by the Valencian people.
The Ukrainian people are also acknowledged for their resilience and are described as a symbol of resistance and a statement of support for international law and order.