Now on its 8th year, the Asia Leaders Awards continues to stand as one of the region’s most respected platforms recognizing outstanding leaders who shape industries and inspire communities across Asia. Following its successful international staging last September in Jakarta, Indonesia, the awards returned to Manila for another prestigious gathering—this time hosted at the Embassy of Malaysia.
In an inspiring evening of diplomacy, recognition, and purpose, the Asia Leaders Awards 2025 brought together the region’s most influential leaders at the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, celebrating individuals and organizations shaping the future across industries.
Hosted under the gracious leadership of His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, the event gathered members of the Diplomatic Corps from Japan, Indonesia, Türkiye, Pakistan, Palestine, Brazil, Vietnam, and Thailand, alongside top 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, emphasized the spirit of unity and leadership that defines the event:
“We are here to celebrate leaders, and each and every one of you are leaders. Do you agree?”
She expressed gratitude to the host embassy and honored guests, including DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran and DTI Undersecretary Maria Blanca Kim Bernardo-Lokin, underscoring the importance of collaboration between diplomacy, governance, and the private sector.
Since its founding in 2018, the Asia Leaders Awards has partnered with various diplomatic missions to recognize trailblazers of this generation—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 shared.
A Night of Diplomatic Leadership
The Leadership Excellence awards honored ambassadors whose work strengthens international relations and promotes peace and cooperation:
- H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino – Ambassador of Malaysia
- H.E. Mounir Y.K. Anastas – Ambassador of Palestine
- H.E. Dr. Asima Rabbani – Ambassador of Pakistan
- H.E. Dr. Lai Thai Binh – Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand
- Endo Kazuya – Japan
- H.E. Niyazi Evren Akyol – Ambassador of Türkiye
- Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura – Brazil
Their presence highlighted the awards’ unique role as a bridge between 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 Who Lead with Impact
The Women of Substance honorees embodied strength, purpose, and service:
- Atty. Lorna Patajo-Kapunan
- Usec. Goddes Hope Libiran
- Usec. Maria Blanca Kim Bernardo-Lokin
- Dr. Ruby Ruth Roces
- Avi Dewani Sari Harahap
- Agile Zamora
- Grace Santiago
Each woman was recognized for making a meaningful difference in her field and community.
Celebrating Men of Excellence and Emerging Leaders
The evening also honored outstanding male leaders:
- Chef Niño Rovillos – Man of the Year, F&B Industry
- Tim Yap – Man of Substance, Style, and Purpose
- Jansen Uy – Young Leader of the Year
- Elvi Sanchez-Quiazon – Outstanding Leader in Hospitality and Tourism
- Caesar Vallejos – Man of the Year, Media
Women of the Year and Style Icons
Two remarkable women were recognized for leadership and influence:
- Pia Yanson – Woman of Substance, Style, and Purpose
- Atty. Marivic Laurel-Garcia – Woman of the Year
Their journeys reflected the power of grace, resilience, and purposeful leadership.
Excellence in Business and Organizations
Outstanding companies were also recognized for innovation and impact:
- JC Organic Barley by JC – Best Natural Supplement of the Year
- Siomai King – Best Foodcart Franchising of the Year
- BíngoPlus – Global Excellence Award: CSR Company of the Year
- NET25 – Philippine Television Network of the Year
Special Awards for Creative Brilliance
The Special Awards celebrated creativity and emerging talent:
- MJ Suayan – Photography Excellence Award
- Adonis Tabanda – Musical Director of the Year
- Frank Lloyd Mamaril – Creative Director of the Year
- Isha Ponti – The Next Gen Award
Beyond Trophies: A Call to Inspire
In her speech, Nicolas reminded everyone that recognition carries 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 concluded with a message of unity and hope:
“By honoring leaders who create positive change, we inspire a nation to dream bigger, lead with integrity, an
