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Filipino pride shines brightly in Dubai as film producer Aquino Plotado and other global achievers were honored at the Global Filipino Star Icon Awards.

Filipino excellence took center stage in Dubai as the Global Filipino Star Icon Awards rolled out the red carpet at the luxurious Kempinski Central Avenue last January 31, 2026, bringing together global achievers, industry icons, and rising changemakers from around the world.

One of the night's most talked-about honorees was Aquino Plotado, who received the Global Filipino Legacy Award for Film, Real Estate, and Philanthropy. The award recognized not only his achievements in business and film but also his steadfast dedication to giving back to communities both in the Philippines and abroad.

Cinema was where Plotado's creative imprint truly shone. His film As The Call, So The Echo earned critical acclaim at the 11th Emirates Film Festival in Dubai in January 2025, winning Best Actor for Enzo Pineda and Best Director for Rusty Palacio Guarin—a strong showing that underscored his growing influence in international filmmaking.

Beyond the silver screen, Plotado also made waves in the business world. In June 2025, he grabbed headlines after securing a landmark AED 1-billion beachfront development deal in Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, through an exclusive partnership with fäm Properties, further solidifying his presence in the Middle East real estate scene.

True to his advocacy for education and community service, Plotado spearheaded a PhP3-million alumni and community event in March 2025, with actor Mark Herras as special guest. The gathering honored his alma mater, where Plotado personally donated PhPP1 million to the school and handed out cash gifts to former teachers and batchmates. He also extended support through the donation of printers, a sound system, a service van, and an e-bike to Potrero National High School in Malabon City.

Related gallery: Celebrities recognized abroad in 2025

Courtesy: Aquino Plotado

The star-studded evening likewise celebrated some of the biggest names shaping the Filipino global narrative. Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray was named Global Icon of Beauty, Advocacy and Culture, while Piolo Pascual received the Lifetime Achievement in Filipino Arts and Global Representation Award.

Broadcast journalist Atom Araullo was honored with the Lifetime Achievement in Public Service Journalism Award, while GMA Pinoy TV was recognized for Excellence in Global Filipino Storytelling. Beauty and business trailblazer Ricky Reyes received the Lifetime Icon of Beauty and Business Innovation Award. Likewise, fashion icons Renee Salud was named Global Ambassador of Filipino Fashion and Heritage, and Rian Fernandez was crowned Designer of the Year.

Rounding out the list of honorees were Carl E. Balita for Lifetime Achievement in Education and Professional Empowerment, Zeinab Harake as Empowered Woman of the New Media Generation, Glenda Dela Cruz for Global Visionary in Beauty and Entrepreneurship, and Pia Marie Yanson as Iconic Filipina in Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy.

More than just a glamorous night of awards, the Global Filipino Star Icon Awards stood as a powerful celebration of Filipino talent, resilience, and global impact—honoring icons and emerging leaders alike who continue to elevate the Filipino story on the world stage.