The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has expressed firm support for the Global Filipino Icon Awards 2026, underscoring the importance of recognizing Filipino excellence across borders as a vital part of national development and cultural representation.
In a statement of support, CFO Secretary Dante Francis “Klink” Ang II congratulated The Global Filipino Magazine for organizing the annual awards and releasing a special edition magazine dedicated to Filipino achievers worldwide.
“I would like to begin by congratulating The Global Filipino Magazine for producing this special edition and for organizing the Global Filipino Icon Awards,” Ang said. “These awards are more than a ceremony; they are a celebration of stories, efforts, and achievements that inspire others.”
The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2026, now on its sixth edition, will be held on January 31, 2026, at the Diamond Ballroom, Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai, bringing together Filipino leaders, professionals, creatives, and community advocates from multiple continents. The invite-only event will recognize awardees and finalists from the Philippines, the Middle East, North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
Ang highlighted the role of overseas Filipinos as more than representatives abroad, stressing their contribution to nation-building.
“The Commission on Filipinos Overseas has long believed that the strength of our nation is reflected in the lives and contributions of Filipinos abroad,” he said. “Our OFWs, immigrants, marriage migrants, and members of the Filipino diaspora are not only ambassadors of goodwill; they are partners in nation-building.”
The awards honor Filipinos across three main categories: Star Icon Awards, recognizing influential personalities and public figures; Special Awards, given to individuals and organizations who continue to excel in their respective fields; and the Emerging Global Filipino Icon, a panel-judged category highlighting rising leaders from the global Filipino community.
According to Ang, initiatives such as the Global Filipino Icon Awards reaffirm that Filipino achievement is not bound by geography.
“Events such as the Global Filipino Icon Awards remind us that excellence knows no geography,” he said. “They celebrate Filipinos who have distinguished themselves in their professions, uplifted their communities, and used their influence to create positive change.”
He added that the stories being recognized through the platform serve as inspiration for younger generations, encouraging leadership grounded in integrity and purpose.
As Chairperson of the CFO, Ang reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening engagement with Filipinos overseas through policies and programs that protect migrant rights and promote diaspora participation in development initiatives.
“To our awardees, nominees, and organizers of the Global Filipino Icon Awards, congratulations and my deepest appreciation,” Ang said.
The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2026 will culminate in the announcement of this year’s Emerging Global Filipino Icon, alongside recognitions for Filipino trailblazers who continue to elevate the country’s name on the global stage.
“Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang Pilipino sa buong mundo!” Ang said.
