The Fundación Corripio Alonso celebrated the inaugural edition of its annual awards on October 2, 2026, at the historic Teatro Riera in Villaviciosa, Spain. The newly established awards honored five regional leaders and prominent organizations for their exceptional contributions to Asturian society across culture, science, entrepreneurship, and social welfare.
Established in 2024 by businessman José Luis “Pepín” Corripio Estrada and his wife Ana María Alonso-who oversee a major business group employing nearly 14,000 workers in the Dominican Republic-the foundation dedicated 100,000 euros in cash prizes across four distinct categories. Each division carries a 25,000-euro prize alongside a custom sculpture, official diploma, and commemorative pin designed to honor local excellence and strengthen familial roots in the region.
Distinguished Winners of the Inaugural Edition
Following a rigorous evaluation of over fifty nominations by independent expert juries, five honorees were selected to receive the inaugural accolades:
- Literature, Arts, and Historical Heritage Preservation (Awarded Ex Aequo): Shared between Asturian music scholar Javier Díaz Fernández, known as “Javier de Arroes,” for a lifetime dedicated to documenting regional culture, and “La Benéfica” of Piloña, a cultural revival project championed by musician Rodrigo Cuevas.
- Social Sciences, Communication, and Humanities: Granted to the Fundación Foro Jovellanos del Principado de Asturias for its continuous research, diffusion of Enlightenment humanist thought, and promotion of civic values.
- Entrepreneurship, Scientific Research, and Technical Innovation: Awarded to renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Luis Fernández-Vega Sanz, recognizing his international scientific contributions alongside his deep operational roots in Asturias.
- Social Welfare and Sports: Presented to the Asociación Pro Personas con Discapacidad “Raitana,” based in Villaviciosa, honoring more than three decades of specialized support, community integration, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.
Ceremony Highlights and Institutional Speeches
The emotional gala opened with musical performances by the Coro Cara Voce and soprano Susana Gudín, followed by welcoming remarks from Villaviciosa Mayor Alejandro Vega. Mayor Vega praised the foundational values championed by Pepín Corripio, emphasizing excellence, effort, hard work, honesty, and exemplary citizenship during turbulent modern times.
Ana Corripio Alonso de Barceló, vice-president and daughter of the founders, addressed the assembled audience of regional authorities, cultural figures, and civil society members. She commended the award recipients for demonstrating how perseverance and generosity can actively transform communities.
“Sus historias nos recuerdan que detrás de cada trayectoria extraordinaria hay valores que merecen perdurar, como el esfuerzo, que no siempre se ve,” stated Ana Corripio Alonso during her keynote address.
Although unable to travel from the Dominican Republic, founder José Luis “Pepín” Corripio addressed attendees via a pre-recorded video presentation. He encouraged younger generations to pursue preparation, hard work, and entrepreneurship, noting that societal progress depends on unlocking human potential.
Looking Forward
The event was directed by foundation secretary Andrés Álvarez Iglesias, who officially announced the upcoming opening of nominations for the second annual edition during the closing remarks. The ceremony concluded with the performance of the Himno de Asturias by the Real Banda de Gaitas Ciudad de Oviedo, cementing the Fundación Corripio Alonso’s long-term commitment to cultural and social development across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Fundación Corripio Alonso established?
The foundation was established in 2024 by businessman José Luis “Pepín” Corripio Estrada and his wife Ana María Alonso to give back to their native Asturias.
Where did the first awards ceremony take place?
The inaugural awards ceremony was held on October 2, 2026, at the Teatro Riera located in Villaviciosa, Spain.
What is the monetary value of each award?
Each of the four main award categories carries a cash prize of 25,000 euros, accompanied by an official sculpture, diploma, and pin.
Who received the award for Literature and Arts?
The award was shared ex aequo between Asturian music researcher Javier Díaz Fernández (“Javier de Arroes”) and the cultural initiative “La Benéfica” of Piloña.
How many nominations were submitted for the inaugural edition?
The foundation received over fifty nominations across its four established categories, evaluated by independent expert juries.
