President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo bestowed the order of Lakandula on world-renowned singer and multi-awarded stage actress Lea Salonga and Everest conquerors Leo Oracion and Erwin 'Pastor' Emata at rites held at Malacañang yesterday.

Oracion gained the distinction for being the first Filipino to ever reach the summit of the world's highest peak on May 17, 2006.

Emata followed suit 24 hours later to become the second Filipino to reach Mt. Everest's apex.

The President bestowed the Order of Lakandula with special class Champion for Life on Oracion and Emata "for attaining outstanding achievement in the field of competitive sports, special talents and physical beauty and similar fields that foster extraordinary national pride and inspiration towards excellence."

Previous awardees of the accolade Champion for Life include boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and world pool champions Efren "Bata" Reyes and Ronato Alcano.

Salonga was awarded the Order of Lakandula with rank of Commander (Komandante) for her outstanding dedication in fostering mutual understanding, cultural exchange, justice and dignified relations among persons and nations.

It is conferred on an individual who has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to one's craft for the welfare of one's people and society.

It also reflects the responsibility of leadership, prudence, fortitude, courage and resolve in the service of one's people.

Salonga began her acting career with Repertory Philippines (RP) at the age of seven and since then took part in many theatrical productions such as RP's Annie.

In 1989, Lea rose to prominence in the international theater scene in London playing the lead role as Kim in Miss Saigon. For her performance, Lea was honored with the Lawrence Olivier Award.

Since then, Lea has won a Tony and a Drama Desk Award for her role in the play. She then moved to the big screen where she became the voice of Mulan and Princess Jasmine in Aladdin.

Lea has received international acclaim for performances in a wide variety of roles: she is the first Asian to portray the role of Eponine in Les Miserables, a Chinese immigrant in the Flower Drum Song and as an adopted child in the television-movie Redwood.*

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