The highly anticipated Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025 is set to return on April 5, 2025, at Dusit Thani Dubai, shining a spotlight on exemplary Filipinos who continue to make an impact not only in their respective careers but also within the community.
This prestigious annual event recognizes 12 exceptional individuals whose contributions and inspiring stories have uplifted thousands, reflecting the core of Filipino excellence, leadership, and service abroad.
Gracing this year’s awards night as Guest of Honor is renowned Filipino journalist, documentarist, professor, and educational administrator Miss Kara David, celebrated for her multi-awarded investigative documentaries on i-Witness. Her presence will highlight the importance of recognizing individuals who serve as role models and catalysts for positive change.
Adding more star power to the event are confirmed personalities Arci Muñoz, a multi-talented actress and performer, and Shereen Ahmed, a known advocate and media personality, who will join the celebration of Filipino excellence in the UAE.
12 Icon 2025 finalists
The following outstanding individuals have been selected as this year’s Icon 2025 Finalists:
Gino Banola – 3D designer and cultural advocate preserving Baybayin and Filipino martial arts
Karl Dela Cruz – Founder of BELONG DXB, promoting inclusivity through sports
Donell Gumiran – Award-winning photographer and storyteller
Amiebeth Caintoy – Entrepreneur and founder of Al Rigga Restaurant, employing over 200 Filipinos
Nanju Francisco – Journalist and editor, amplifying OFW voices in Bahrain
Nelson Bautista – Visionary nurse and educator advancing healthcare in the UAE
Pamela Amor P. Calinog – Founder of Ausome Family Journey (AFJ), supporting neurodivergent Filipino families
Bea Bagac – Entrepreneur behind GoMommy.ae and the GoGreen sustainability campaign
Ron Sanchez – Coach and mentor of Champs Academy, shaping young basketball athletes
Edcel Cabalan – Architect and visual artist promoting cultural preservation through art
Anthony Gacis – Hospitality leader developing careers in the restaurant industry
Marilou Sandique – HR leader and OFW well-being advocate, founder of Ako Naman Muna
Special awards category
In addition to the Icon 2025 Finalists, this year’s edition introduces a Special Awards category, dedicated to recognizing individuals and businesses making a significant impact in the UAE. These awards aim to celebrate those who have contributed to community development, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and industry leadership, further enriching the lives of Filipinos in the region.
Selection process
A distinguished panel of judges will convene on March 15, 2025, to deliberate and select the Emerging Global Filipino Icon of the Year from among the 12 finalists. Finalists will be invited to present their contributions and share their journeys during this private session, with venue details to be announced in the coming days.
Invitation-only event
The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025 is an invite-only event. Official invitations will be distributed in the coming weeks to confirmed guests, finalists, awardees, and members of the community.
For more information, contact: Orli Gueta: +971 50 319 6856 or Jp Cosico: +971 54 482 0661
