The University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication Alumni Association (UPCMCAA) reaffirms its commitment to honoring alumni who embody excellence and public service by recognizing three distinguished individuals in this year’s edition of the Glory Awards.
The 2024 Glory Awards, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 23, at the UP Film Institute in UP Diliman, aim to highlight UPCMC’s vital role as a “pillar of responsible media” in the Philippines.
The Glory Awards, organized by the UPCMCAA, honor the exceptional contributions of its alumni to the fields of media and communication in the Philippines.
In a statement, the UPCMCAA emphasized that the 2024 Glory Awards also honor the legacy of Dr. Gloria Feliciano, the founding dean of UP’s College of Mass Communication, whose unwavering dedication to excellence continues to inspire generations of media professionals.
2024 Awardees
The Glory Awards seek to honor alumni who uphold the highest standards of integrity, innovation, and social impact across broadcasting, journalism, advertising, and beyond.
This year’s Glory Award honorees are radio veteran Willie Inong, journalist Joyce Pañares, and advertising director Mandy Reyes. They are each recognized for their “remarkable contributions in their respective fields, setting new benchmarks in media and public service.”
Inong, widely known in broadcasting as “Hillbilly Willy,” has dedicated over 40 years to transforming the radio and television industry in the Philippines.
Through his innovative programming and unique formats, Inong has broadened his audience reach while also delivering essential healthcare services as Chair of the Good News Clinic & Hospital, a charitable mission based in the Cordillera region.
Pañares, managing editor of Manila Standard, is being honored for her courageous reporting and steadfast commitment to media ethics.
Starting her career as a young reporter, Pañares swiftly gained recognition and went on to serve as a respected president of the Malacañang Press Corps. "Her dedication to the profession extends to mentoring future journalists, equipping new generations with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of the newsroom, particularly in media ethics and management," said the UPCMCAA.
Reyes, a trailblazer in Philippine advertising, founded Industria Productions, the first production house to introduce digital filmmaking to local commercials.
Renowned for directing some of the country’s most iconic advertising campaigns, especially in the food industry, Reyes continues to shape the field with storytelling that offers a “sensory experience for viewers,” said the UPCMCAA. His work, the UPCMCAA added, has transformed advertising into an art form, blending striking “visuals with emotional resonance.”
This year’s honorees join an esteemed group of alumni recognized for their significant contributions to society and the media industry, including journalists Jessica Soho, Ces Drilon, Karen Davila, Ging Reyes, Roby Alampay, Ed Lingao, Abner Mercado, Lynda Jumilla, Charie Villa, and Kata Inocencio; filmmakers Maryo de los Reyes, Jeffrey Jeturian, and Cathy Garcia; TV executives Loren Dyogi and Deo Endrinal; social advocates Lan Mercado and Nona Andaya-Castillo; peace advocate Samira Gutoc; and many others.
UPCMCAA said each Glory Award recipient is presented with a distinctive trophy, sculpted by UP Professor Emerita Gigi Javier Alfonso, symbolizing their achievements and enduring impact.
The 2024 Glory Awards will coincide with the UP CMC alumni homecoming, bringing together over 150 UPCMC alumni, students, and university officials to celebrate these three exceptional individuals.