Asia CEO Awards celebrates Filipino leadership with a greater mission in mind
Press launch on April 29 at Marriott Manila sets the stage for the 16th Asia CEO Awards
For 16 years, the Asia CEO Awards has been more than just a night of recognition. It’s been a rallying cry—a reminder that the Philippines is not just a country of promise, but a country of progress.
Founded by business leaders Rebecca Bustamante and Richard Mills, the Asia CEO Awards was born from a clear purpose: to help the Philippines rise to First World status. “The World Bank defines First World income at $14,000 per capita. The Philippines is on its way there,” said Mills. “But what concerns us is that too many Filipinos still think success means leaving the country. That thinking has to change.”
Today, the Philippines is poised to reach upper-middle income status, with steady 6–7% annual growth. If the momentum continues, First World status could be within reach by 2040. But changing the national mindset is just as important as hitting the numbers.
That’s where the Asia CEO Awards comes in. “We want to show Filipinos that the best place to build a career and a future is right here at home,” said Bustamante. “The world sees the Philippines as a growth superstar. We need Filipinos to believe that, too.”
This year’s Asia CEO Awards happens in October at the Marriott Grand Ballroom. A press launch will be held at the on April 29, 2025 at Marriott Manila.
Every year, the awards shine a spotlight on leaders and companies who are moving the nation forward—visionaries like Andrew Tan, Ramon Ang, and Tessie Sy. “When you meet these leaders, you realize they’re regular people who just had an extraordinary mission and focus,” Mills said. “That’s what we look for: people doing amazing things for the country.”
Running a world-class event hasn’t been easy. “We’re not rich. Every year was a balancing act between building something grand and not going broke,” Bustamante shared. But for them, the cause was worth every challenge.
At its core, the Asia CEO Awards is about developing world-class leaders. Strong leaders build strong businesses, hire more Filipinos, and inspire a cycle of opportunity. They also give global investors the confidence to bring in more jobs—and future leaders.
The Asia CEO Awards continues to seek outstanding companies that are ready to be recognized and expand their impact. Its partners are true nation-builders, showcasing their brands to the country’s top business leaders and decision-makers.
“We still have a lot of work to do,” said Mills. “But every leader we recognize, every company we highlight, gets us one step closer to the Philippines we all dream about.”
Join us as we kick off a grand celebration of leadership and excellence. Proudly presented by Asia CEO.
More details about ASIA CEO AWARDS at https://www.asia-ceo-awards.org/
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This article is brought to you by Asia CEO Awards.
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