A dazzling milestone unfolded at the Shangri-La Plaza Cinema Premiere Lounge with the Golden Phoenix International Achievement Awards (GPIAA) launch, setting the stage for an annual celebration of excellence, empowerment, and entertainment.

This groundbreaking initiative was conceived by internationally acclaimed master mariner, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Capt. Carlito Baronda Drilon seeks to become one of the world's most prestigious award-giving events. 

With a mission to honor resilience, innovation, and achievements across various fields, the GPIAA also aims to spotlight the brightest talents in Philippine cinema, including the industry's oldest living stars.

A heart for excellence

Drilon’s journey to creating the GPIAA reflects his profound dedication to uplifting lives and recognizing excellence. Born in Dumangas, Iloilo, Drilon’s inspiring story showcases his rise from humble beginnings to a respected international master mariner with over 25 years of maritime expertise.

“I have always believed that recognizing the efforts and achievements of individuals and organizations can ignite a spark of inspiration,” Drilon shared. “Through the GPIAA, we aim to celebrate the extraordinary and empower people to reach their full potential.”

Drilon is also a noted entrepreneur and philanthropist, having founded the Top Joby International Manpower Agency and championed numerous educational initiatives for underprivileged youth. His passion for uplifting others inspired the creation of the GPIAA, which he envisions as more than an award show—it's a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and social impact.

A star-studded launch

The GPIAA’s debut event radiated elegance, hosted by the multi-talented Lance Raymundo and creatively directed by veteran industry figure Tom Adrales, whose vision elevated the proceedings to a world-class standard. The symbolic theme of the Golden Phoenix, representing transformation, resilience, and rebirth, resonated throughout the event.

“The Golden Phoenix symbolizes rising above challenges,” Drilon remarked. “It represents the human spirit’s ability to transform adversity into opportunity and emerge stronger.”

Honoring trailblazers

The launch also introduced the Golden Phoenix Icons of Excellence, honoring two luminaries whose work exemplifies the GPIAA’s values:

Francia C. Conrado, President and Chairwoman of the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS), has left an indelible mark in film, public service, and education.

Frank G. Rivera, an acclaimed playwright, director, and cultural advocate, has tirelessly worked to preserve Filipino heritage and empower future generations through the arts.

A tribute to Philippine cinema’s veterans

In a heartfelt nod to Philippine cinema’s rich history, the GPIAA also announced its intention to honor some of the industry’s oldest living actors and actresses from the golden age of local filmmaking. These icons, who graced films under legendary studios like LVN Studios, Sampaguita Pictures, and Premiere Productions, include: Gloria Romero, Pepito Rodriguez, Perla Bautista, Baby O'Brien, Marita Zobel, Gina Pareño, Marlene Dauden, Rosa Rosal, Pilar Pilapil, Nova Villa, Liza Lorena, Delia Razon and the oldest living actress, Pilar Padilla, to name a few.

Drilon emphasized that celebrating these living legends ensures their invaluable contributions to the arts are never forgotten.

The road ahead

The GPIAA is set to become an annual entertainment event, with its inaugural awards night scheduled for early 2025. The ceremony promises to honor trailblazers across industries while celebrating the timeless brilliance of Filipino cinema’s veterans. Proceeds from the event will fund scholarships and other charitable initiatives for underprivileged youth, reflecting Capt. Drilon’s enduring commitment to social impact.

“Through these awards, we hope to create opportunities for the next generation,” Drilon said. “Our mission goes beyond recognizing achievements; it is about making a difference and inspiring everyone to pursue greatness.”

A legacy in the making

The Golden Phoenix International Achievement Awards is poised to become a beacon of inspiration. From honoring legends of Philippine cinema to recognizing leaders and achievers in innovation and resilience in different fields, the GPIAA embodies its founder’s vision of uplifting communities through recognition and empowerment.

“The Golden Phoenix is not just an event,” Drilon emphasized. “It is a movement to inspire resilience, excellence, and positive change. Together, we can rise and shine as icons of hope and achievement.”

As the countdown to the 2025 awards night begins, the Golden Phoenix spreads its wings, set to soar as a world-class platform celebrating human excellence and the enduring spirit of entertainment. (Contributed by Jemuel Cainglet Salterio)