The event, presented by Eva García and recorded by Mírame TV and the Canal Internacional Islas Canarias, highlighted the selfless dedication of both honorees to Candelaria. Mayor Mari Brito stated, "Agustín and Pilar represent the best of this town: two people who have dedicated their lives to Candelaria without expecting anything in return." She emphasized Expósito's contribution with wood and Pinto's with festive traditions, noting that "a large part of what we see today in our festivals and in our Basilica bears their mark."
Mónica Yanes, Councilor for Citizen Participation, stressed the special value of the event, as residents themselves, through the Community Board, propose the honorees. "Our elders are the living memory of the municipality, and this is the day when all of Candelaria thanks them," she affirmed.
Agustín Expósito Otazo, born in Candelaria in 1935, began working with wood at the age of fourteen. His hands crafted significant pieces for the Basilica of Candelaria and the Convent, including the main door, the altar table, and the support for the statue of the Virgin. His work also adorns churches in Las Cuevecitas, Malpaís, and Barranco Hondo, as well as numerous private commissions.
María del Pilar Pinto Sabina, linked to Candelaria for generations, dedicated many years to the Municipal Festival Workshop, where she made costumes and props for celebrations. She was a founder of the group of fisherwomen who accompany the Virgen del Carmen and participated in creating the first painted banners for the municipality in 1995, also directing the making of the renowned Nativity scene houses.
Both received a commemorative painting and a plaque. Following the recognition, the Grupo Achamán performed their special concert '50 Years'.
