San Jose City was proudly awarded a plaque of recognition on the 30th day of August 2018, for its significant contribution to the cultural and economic development wealth of the community and for a remarkable effort of developing the entire city as a Christmas destination. The hosting of events paved the way for economic opportunities in addition to social and cultural benefits, thereby being a contributor to sustainable local economic development.

San Jose City received a citation award as best tourism event (festival)-city, "Liwanag ng Pasko sa San Jose", during the 13th ATOP-DOT PEARL Awards at Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental.