Twenty-nine leaders from across Asia were honored at the Asia Leaders Awards 2025, an evening of diplomacy, recognition and purpose held at the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, celebrating individuals and organizations shaping the region’s future across industries.
Hosted under the leadership of Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, the event gathered members of the diplomatic corps from Japan, Indonesia, Türkiye, Pakistan, Palestine, Brazil, Vietnam and Thailand, alongside senior Philippine government officials and distinguished guests.
In her opening address, Grace Bondad Nicolas, co-founder of Tag Media Group and organizer of the Asia Leaders Awards, highlighted the spirit of unity that defines the annual gathering.
“We are here to celebrate leaders, and each and every one of you are leaders. Do you agree?” Nicolas said.
She expressed gratitude to the host embassy and acknowledged guests including Department of Budget and Management Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran and Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Maria Blanca Kim Bernardo-Lokin, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among diplomacy, governance and the private sector.
Founded in 2018, the Asia Leaders Awards has partnered with diplomatic missions to recognize trailblazers — from public servants to business innovators—who exemplify excellence and service.
“Through the years, we have remained steadfast in our mission to provide meaningful platforms that celebrate excellence, leadership and inspiration,” Nicolas said.
The Leadership Excellence Awards honored ambassadors whose work has strengthened international relations and promoted peace and cooperation. Honorees included Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia; Mounir Y.K. Anastas of Palestine; Dr. Asima Rabbani of Pakistan; Lai Thai Binh of Viet Nam; Endo Kazuya of Japan; Niyazi Evren Akyol of Türkiye;a and Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura of Brazil. Their presence underscored the awards’ role as a bridge among nations and leaders.
“Tonight’s celebration is not only about recognizing achievement, but about igniting inspiration — fueling a collective vision for progress, innovation and leadership across Asia,” Nicolas said.
Women leaders who made a significant impact in their respective fields were recognized under the Women of Substance category. Honorees included lawyer and public servant . Lorna Patajo-Kapunan; Department of Budget and Management Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran; Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Maria Blanca Kim Bernardo-Lokin; Dr. Ruby Ruth Roces; Avi Dewani Sari Harahap; Agile Zamora; and Grace Santiago. Elvi Sanchez-Quiazon received special recognition as Outstanding Leader in Hospitality and Tourism.
Outstanding male leaders were also recognized during the ceremony. Chef Niño Rovillos was named Man of the Year in the food and beverage industry, while lifestyle and events personality Tim Yap received the Man of Substance, Style and Purpose award. Jansen Uy was honored as Young Leader of the Year, and media executive Caesar Vallejos was named Man of the Year in Media.
Two women were honored for leadership, influence and style. Pia Yanson received the Woman of Substance, Style and Purpose award, while Atty. Marivic Laurel-Garcia was named Woman of the Year, recognized for her leadership and contributions to her field.
Excellence in business and organizational leadership was likewise celebrated. JC Organic Barley by JC was named Best Natural Supplement of the Year, while Siomai King received the Best Foodcart Franchising of the Year award. BingoPlus was honored with the Global Excellence Award for CSR Company of the Year, and NET25 was recognized as Philippine Television Network of the Year.
Special Awards were presented to individuals in the creative and performing arts. Photographer MJ Suayan received the Photography Excellence Award, Adonis Tabanda was named Musical Director of the Year, and Frank Lloyd Mamaril received the Creative Director of the Year award. Emerging talent Isha Ponti was honored with The Next Gen Award.
Beyond trophies and titles, Nicolas emphasized that the recognition carries a deeper meaning.
“Recognition such as the Asia Leaders Awards goes beyond trophies and titles. It affirms hard work, integrity and purpose. More importantly, it sets powerful examples for the next generation,” she said.
She concluded with a message of unity and hope, saying that by honoring leaders who create positive change, the awards inspire people to dream bigger, lead with integrity and believe that meaningful impact is possible in every sector.
As the evening drew to a close, the Asia Leaders Awards 2025 stood as a testament to collaboration among nations and the enduring spirit of leadership across Asia.
“Tonight is a celebration of leadership — so let’s enjoy and be inspired,” Nicolas said.
