The Asia CEO Awards return to permanent leadership, opening nominations for 2026
In an era of ongoing challenges, the region’s top business honor recognizes those who are flexible, driven, and motivated
“Hard times don’t last, hard people do.”
This message entered the Marriott Grand Ballroom on April 30, 2026, as 17.th The Asia CEO Awards have been officially launched.
The kickoff brought together industry leaders, partners, and members of the media, setting the stage for a celebration of strength, leadership, and excellence in Philippine business.
“This is the largest business awards event in the nation, and the largest in Southeast Asia,” said Asia CEO Awards 2026 Chairman Richard Mills.
“We’re looking for the extraordinary – individuals and teams who have demonstrated outstanding success and meaningful contribution to others. Because here, true honor is earned, never won.”
Presented by Santé, this year’s program highlights businesses that are thriving amidst today’s challenges.
WHEN IT WAKES UP WELL
Across 15 categories, the event recognizes organizations that are setting new benchmarks and driving the future of their industries.
Nominees may participate in MSME Company of the Year, Technology Company of the Year, Young Leader of the Year, and Diversity Company of the Year.
Other highlighted awards, supported by our industry partners, include:
- Service Excellence Company of the Year (ELSA Ventures OPC) — unique customer experience
- Entrepreneur of the Year (Figari) — visionary leadership and business success
- IT-BPM Techblazer of the Year (IBPAP) — promotes digital innovation
- Top Employer of the Year (Innodata) – outstanding workplace culture
- CSR Company of the Year (KMC teams and workplaces) — meaningful social impact
- Sustainability Company of the Year – environmental leadership
- Female Leader of the Year (Biosessence) — influential leadership
- Wellness Company of the Year (Santé) – promoting health and well-being
- New Company of the Year (PSG Global Solutions) – effective ideas and solutions
This year is particularly significant as the Asia CEO Awards expand its reach across Southeast Asia, welcoming nominees for CEO of the Year and Apex Company of the Year, sponsored by Microsourcing.
QUICK CHECK
PwC Philippines, the official information partner of the Asia CEO Awards, helps support the credibility and integrity of the selection process.
Assists in screening nominees and provides structured input to a panel of judges, who make final decisions based on their industry knowledge and experience.
“Last year, the event received more than 600 nominations, with 162 Circle of Excellence awardees,” shared PwC Philippines Assurance Partner May Centeno-Malabanan.
“This year, PwC expects to match, if not exceed, the level of nominations received in previous years, which shows how award forums like these continue to demonstrate resilience and promote Philippine businesses.”
Serving on the committee are Bernie Villegas, Alex Cabrera, Darlene Berberabe, Bing Sibal-Limjoco, Don Felbaum, Jack Madrid, Felino Palafox, and Richard Mills.
BE A PART OF ASIA’S PREMIER BUSINESS PLATFORM
ELSAL Ventures OPC joins the Asia CEO Awards for the first time as a sponsor.
Anne Flores, senior vice president of Strategic Business, Joint Ventures, and Public Relations, shared the motivation behind the move:
“I am very happy to be a part of this organization because it allows us to connect with people who can help advance our vision and purpose, and also open business opportunities and relationships that we want to pursue.”
Santé CEO Joey Marcelo expressed this.
“I have always believed that if you have a dream, you need a team – because only teamwork can make dreams come true,” he said.
“That’s what makes the Asia CEO Awards especially meaningful. We’re in the midst of a crisis, and more than ever, we need allies. This event gives us just that – and more.”
Appointment of Asia CEO Awards 2026 are open, submissions are accepted until August 15, 2026. The main Awards Gala will be held October 13.
Presented by Santé, this year’s event features a diverse list of sponsors including Bioessence, ELSAL Ventures OPC, Figari, IBPAP, Innodata, KMC Cares, Microsourcing, and PSG Global Solutions.
Additional support comes from MWell (official beverage sponsor), United Neon (official media sponsor), PwC (official information partner), Teleperformance (official dinner partner), Marriott (official venue partner), and Modern Ads and Promo Inc. (official gift partner).
To learn more, visit https://asia-ceo-awards.org/.
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