Marbella Pays Tribute to the Honorary Citizens of 2025

The Marbella City Theater hosted this Saturday, May 10, the recognition ceremony for its 16 Honorary Citizens of 2025. Whether for their merits in the fields of art, culture, sports, business, or social work, the municipality pays homage each year to all those individuals whose efforts contribute to the growth of the locality. The mayor of Marbella, Ángeles Muñoz, presided over the emotionally charged event. "Being an Honorary Citizen is much more than an official appointment, a title, or a plaque placed in a showcase. It is a recognition of those who, like you, often silently contribute to our city's growth and improvement day by day," the mayor pointed out.

Thus, the ceremony began with a new step towards inclusion for people with hearing impairments as it included a sign language interpreter. The first person honored was José Lara Añón, "for being that flamenco voice born at the foot of La Concha who cultivates deep art in the new generations." Similarly, María Adamuz received her award for, as Muñoz pointed out, "demonstrating that the talent of our city can conquer the most demanding stages." Thirdly, Rafael Reyes was honored "for igniting the flame of rock in San Pedro, creating an inexhaustible quarry of young musicians."

Following them, Manuel Lavigne received his recognition "for embodying the vocation of public service, with that commitment to helping others always." Subsequently, Antonio Sánchez was honored "for being that close look that immortalizes through his lens our social and cultural life" and Jesús López "for leaving an indelible mark as a teacher and committed role model in education and the community."

For her part, María José Ortiz was distinguished "for being the discreet and effective soul of the Encarnación Parish and an example of constant dedication," Juan Francisco Jiménez, "for representing that entrepreneurial spirit that drives the economy," Alfredo Macías, "for his passion, generosity, and unforgettable legacy in the San Pedro hospitality industry as a gastronomic reference" and Leonor Blanco "for being a fundamental pillar in Nueva Andalucía, keeping the spirit of community alive."

Past the midpoint of the gala, the moment came for Juan Manuel Zamora, "for his crucial role and commitment in the development of key infrastructures for the progress of Marbella," followed by Jesús Tomás Prieto, "for an exemplary career of more than 30 years in the Local Police, serving with professionalism and closeness," as well as Manuel Pérez, "for being a testament to overcoming and passion for knowledge in his brilliant career in the world of law."

Finally, Francisco Soto was recognized "for his readiness to serve San Pedro, collaborating tirelessly with the brotherhoods," Encarna Bandera, "for dedicating her life to instilling through her teaching work a passion for theater in children and adults," and Manuel Cortés, 'El Pinto', "for taking the mastery of flamenco dance to stages around the world."

"You are sixteen examples of dedication who have contributed with tenacity, humanity, and a deep love to leave an unforgettable mark," concluded Muñoz.

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