Paraguayan actor Rodrigo Calonga received special recognition in Rio de Janeiro during the act for Paraguay's Independence, organized by the Paraguayan Consulate. The tribute highlighted his international career and his cultural representation in productions for Netflix, Disney and Rede Globo, consolidating him as one of the Paraguayan artists with the greatest presence abroad.
In the Arts, Culture and Paraguayan Representation category, Calonga, born in Pedro Juan Caballero, was distinguished for his artistic career and his contribution to the dissemination of Paraguayan culture on international stages.
The recognition underscores not only his professional growth in the competitive audiovisual circuit, but also his commitment to Paraguayan cultural identity, which he projects through his artistic work.
Upon receiving the distinction, the actor shared a message directed especially to the youth of his hometown: «I come from Pedro Juan Caballero and it deeply moves me that this news can reach my city. I hope my story can inspire other young people to believe that dreams can truly cross borders. It doesn't matter where we come from; talent, effort and perseverance can take us very far».
Likewise, he reflected on the meaning of representing the country in his artistic career: «Every time I step onto a stage or a set, I feel that I don't enter alone as Rodrigo; a Paraguayan artist enters with me, our culture, our history and our roots».
The ceremony gained special symbolic value by coinciding with May 14, an emblematic date for Paraguay.
Finally, Calonga dedicated the distinction to all Paraguayan artists who, inside and outside the country, contribute to keeping the national culture alive, and reaffirmed his commitment to continue taking the name of Paraguay and especially that of Pedro Juan Caballero to the international sphere.