Cover The six women who won the Philippines' first Front & Female Awards
The six women who won the Philippines' first Front & Female Awards
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What happened at the exclusive dinner ceremony where the six winners of our first Front & Female Awards in the Philippines were unveiled
Marking its first year in the Philippines, the Front & Female Awards kicked off this month with a lively dinner ceremony on August 9, 2024, at the Bonifacio Hall of Shangri-La the Fort.
From a list of 18 inspiring nominees, six winners were honoured at this event for their work to drive the progress of women and girls in the Philippines, from the founder of a start-up advocating for maternal mental health to an entrepreneur championing women in the food and beverage industry.
Attended by more than 150 guests, the Front & Female Awards Philippines 2024 are presented in partnership with lead partner Belo and supporting partners Grab and Shangri-la the Fort.
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Nikki Tang, Serla Russell, Frannie Jacinto, Irene Martel Francisco, Consul Fortune Ledesma, Duday Tuason, Linda Ley, Gina Mohnani and Connie Haw
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The event started at 6.30pm, and early arrivals had the chance to mingle with one another over delicious canapés and cocktails in the ballroom foyer. They also took the opportunity to take photos with one another in front of the photo wall to commemorate the special occasion.
An opening speech from Tatler Philippines’ Managing Director, Irene Martel Francisco set the tone for the evening as she spoke about her enthusiasm for promoting women’s causes. “I think it’s a wonderful time to be a woman,” she enthused. “You are heard, valued and appreciated for all that you do. We at Tatler are proud to contribute to increasing women’s voices and lauding their achievements!”
Black Angus Beef Carpaccio & Torched Artichoke
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After her speech, a video introducing this year’s nominees was played as dinner was served. A wide range of delicious cocktails were also served by Martell.
Above Fireside chat with Vicki Belo and Karen Davila, hosted by Issa Litton
Fireside chat with Vicki Belo and Karen Davila, hosted by Issa Litton
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Upon finishing dinner, the guests were treated to a fireside chat between award-winning journalist and broadcaster Karen Davila and doctor and entrepreneur Vicki Belo. They discussed their experiences balancing their successful careers with their time with family and friends.
“We are who we are because of the women who came before us,” shared Karen Davila, highlighting the role of community in driving genuine and long-lasting change.
Dr Vicki Belo also expressed her excitement about the Front & Female Awards, which represented women highlighting each other’s advocacies. “That’s what we need: for women to support other women. These are the people who will bring you up.”
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Sabrina Tamayo receiving the Rising Champion Award, presented by Cong. Camille Villar, Rissa Trillo and Chit Lijauco of Tatler Philippines
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The high point of the evening came when the six winners were revealed, starting with Sabrina Tamayo of Project Smile was named the Rising Champion. Next, the Well-Being Award was presented to Unprude founder and sex and relationships therapist Dr Rica Cruz. Afterwards, the president and CEO of Mynt Martha Sazon received the Business Leader Award.
Founder and CEO of Beacon, Inc, Kate Delos Reyes, founder of Sinagtala Center for Women & Children in Conflict, Inc Jamela Alindogan and Wildflour Group CEO Ana De Ocampo were also called onstage to receive their respective awards.
Above The winners of the Philippines' first Front & Female Awards, along with Tatler Philippines' Managing Director Irene Martel Francisco, Deputy Editor Isabel Francisco, Chit Lijauco, and the voting committee
The winners of the Philippines' first Front & Female Awards, along with Tatler Philippines' Managing Director Irene Martel Francisco, Deputy Editor Isabel Francisco, Chit Lijauco, and the voting committee
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The evening closed with a photo opportunity as guests mingled over dessert and drinks before adjourning for the night.
The 2024 ceremony proves that Front & Female continues to highlight women’s impact on the Philippines’ society and economy. When women empower each other, the entire community rises together.
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Credits
Photography: Mon Mangila, Ben Sosas, Kevin Prudon and Jon Hipe
About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
