Proud to Be Pinoy: Catriona, Piolo, and Filipino Icons Shine Bright at Dubai Awards Night
Dubai became a celebration of Filipino excellence on January 31, 2026, as the Global Filipino Star Icon Awards held a star-studded ceremony at the prestigious Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai — gathering distinguished leaders, entertainers, and changemakers from across the globe. The night was a testament to how far Filipino talent and influence reaches beyond the shores of the archipelago.
Among the most celebrated honorees was Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, who received the Global Icon of Beauty, Advocacy and Culture Award. Known not only for her iconic slow-mo walk but for her passionate advocacy work in communities affected by poverty and the effects of mining, Catriona thanked the award-giving body and said she was honored to represent Filipino values on the world stage. Kapamilya heartthrob Piolo Pascual was equally celebrated, receiving the Lifetime Achievement in Filipino Arts and Global Representation Award — a fitting tribute to his decades-long career.
The night also honored veteran broadcast journalist Atom Araullo, who received the Lifetime Achievement in Public Service Journalism Award, and beauty icon Ricky Reyes, recognized with the Lifetime Icon of Beauty and Business Innovation Award. Designer Renee Salud was named Global Ambassador of Filipino Fashion and Heritage, while Rian Fernandez took home Designer of the Year honors. Digital content creator Zeinab Harake was recognized as Empowered Woman of the New Media Generation.
Businessman and philanthropist Aquino Plotado received the night's top honor — the Global Filipino Legacy Award for Film, Real Estate and Philanthropy — acknowledging his sweeping contributions across multiple fields. His landmark AED 1-billion beachfront development deal in Ras Al Khaimah and his film "As The Call, So The Echo," which won Best Actor and Best Director at the 11th Emirates Film Festival, were cited as key highlights of his remarkable career.
The awards underscored a growing recognition of Filipino talent and leadership on the international stage, from showbiz and journalism to business, fashion, and philanthropy. For the Filipino diaspora in the UAE and around the world, nights like these are powerful reminders that Pinoy excellence knows no borders. Ipinagmamalaki natin silang lahat — bawat isa ay nagdadala ng dangal para sa Pilipinas. Source: Philstar.com, ABS-CBN Entertainment, GMA Entertainment, Malaya, Radar.ph
