Cover Tatler Impact Awardees Martha Sazon, Carlos Yulo, and Cherrie Atilano, alongside presenters Dr. Randy Francisco and Isabel Martel Francisco (Photo: Tatler Philippines)
Tatler Impact Awardees Martha Sazon, Carlos Yulo, and Cherrie Atilano, alongside presenters Dr. Randy Francisco and Isabel Martel Francisco (Photo: Tatler Philippines)
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From science and technology to business, humanity and culture, these individuals are proof that greatness isn’t just about success—it’s about impact. Learn more about this year’s Tatler Impact Awardees
The Tatler Ball annually honours individuals whose exceptional contributions have influenced their respective fields. For its 23rd anniversary, the ball held the Tatler Impact Awards, celebrating individuals not just for their achievements but for their lasting impact that goes beyond the Philippines.
This year, the four Tatler Impact Awards were given to movers and shakers from every corner of society, particularly those who have left an indelible mark on the worlds of science and technology, business, humanity and culture.
Tatler bestowed the Impact Award for Science and Technology to Dr Erika Fille Legara for trailblazing in the field of data science and artificial intelligence in the Philippines.
The Impact Award for Humanity was presented to Cherrie Atilano, a social entrepreneur whose passion for sustainable agriculture has changed communities across the country.
Martha Sazon, the CEO behind GCash, received the Award for Business, for leading the e-wallet to become an indispensable tool for Filipinos.
Lastly, the Impact Award for Culture was given to Carlos Yulo, a gymnast whose history-making victories at the Paris 2024 Olympics became a source of national pride.
Learn more about these exemplary individuals who are also part of Asia’s Most Influential 2024 list.
Impact Awardee for Science and Technology: Erika Fille Legara
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The Impact Award for Science and Technology was given to none other than Erika Fille Legara, the woman who makes data science look as exciting as a Hollywood blockbuster. As the Aboitiz Chair in Data Science at the Asian Institute of Management and the leader of the Center for AI Research, Dr Legara is a mastermind in artificial intelligence, urban science and socio-economic systems. Her work is helping us understand complex systems in ways that can solve real-world problems.
Whether she’s improving transportation systems or solving complex societal issues, Dr Legara’s work speaks louder than any algorithm could. She’s earned accolades like the TOWNS Award and the Asian Scientist 100, and although she was unable to attend the ceremony, her impact resonates with all of us.
"We know that this award is truly for all Filipino scientists, AI engineers, STEM professors, and, of course, the women in data science and AI who inspire and lead the way in driving meaningful change," she says in a message.
"As AI reshapes our world, it's crucial that we ensure its responsible adoption to harness its benefits while minimizing risks. At the same time, we must never lose sight of our humanity—balancing technological progress with empathy, ethics, and the values that make us who we are," Legara stresses.
Impact Awardee for Humanity: Cherrie Atilano
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The Impact Award for Humanity was presented to Cherrie Atilano, the woman who’s not just changing agriculture—she’s making it sexy (and we’re here for it). As the founder of AGREA, Atilano has created a platform where sustainable agriculture, poverty eradication and gender equality come together in a beautiful, world-changing dance. Her mission to elevate Filipino farmers and advocate for climate action has earned her international recognition from the United Nations and the World Economic Forum.
Atilano’s approach isn’t just about farming; it’s about changing communities, and she’s proving that the future of agriculture is bright—and it has nothing to do with ploughs and dirt under the nails (unless that dirt is changing the world).
"This is a very humbling experience. Every day of my life, I work with farmers—not just here in the Philippines but across 65 countries worldwide. My mission in life began as an 11-year-old girl teaching farmers on a sugarcane farm in Negros Occidental, where I come from," Atilano shares.
"My mother once told me, 'Learn to connect the shortest distance—from your mind to your heart. If you can do this, your life will be significant and relevant.' That advice has guided me throughout my 27 years of advocating for farmers and food security," she adds. "I’m proud to be making farming sexy and showing the world that farmers are powerful. Too often, they’re overlooked, but I’m thrilled to bring them to centre stage."
Read more: Founder and CEO of Agrea, Cherrie Atilano, shares her empowering story
Impact Awardee for Business: Martha Sazon
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The Impact Award for Business was awarded to Martha Sazon, the digital finance disruptor behind GCash, the app that’s practically become a national treasure. If you’ve ever paid your bills, invested in stocks, or sent money to your cousin in Cebu or received money from your aunt in Canada, you’ve felt the ripple effect of Sazon’s leadership. Under her watch, GCash has grown from a simple mobile wallet to a full-fledged financial ecosystem, with over 94 million users in the Philippines alone.
Her vision? To make financial services accessible to every Filipino. With GCash Overseas and partnerships like Alipay+, she’s also putting the Philippines on the global fintech map. Sazon isn’t just running a business—she’s reimagining what financial inclusion looks like for the digital age. And we’re here for every minute of it.
"With a 2,000-strong GCash team, we're dedicated to serving a greater purpose: making the everyday lives of Filipinos better. Since the pandemic, we've been helping businesses of all sizes not only survive but also thrive and prosper," Sazon says. "Thank you for being part of this journey. With your support, we’re optimistic about creating an even brighter future for our country. Thank you so much."
Related: Meet Asia’s Most Influential magnates who are driving economic growth across the region
Impact Awardee for Culture: Carlos Yulo
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An icon of Filipino pride, Carlos Yulo, the gymnast whose gravity-defying feats at the Paris 2024 Olympics turned heads, inspired millions, and, yes, made us all believe in the impossible. With two gold medals under his belt, Yulo has singlehandedly elevated gymnastics in the Philippines, and his success has inspired a nation to embrace the magic of non-traditional sports.
His triumphs are more than just athletic feats—they symbolise Filipino pride, resilience and a reminder that greatness knows no limits. As a trailblazer for young athletes, Yulo is showing the world that a Filipino can reach the highest podium in any sport, and his accomplishments continue to motivate future champions to dream big and reach even higher.
In his acceptance speech, Yulo expressed heartfelt gratitude to Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion for her unwavering belief in him from the very start of his gymnastics journey. He also thanked his partner, Chloe, for her steadfast love, support and motivation, which have been instrumental in his success.
"Sana po'y patuloy niyong suportahan ang mga atletang Pilipino [I hope you will continue to support Filipino athletes]," Yulo says.
This event was made possible by our gold partner Lexus, and supporting partners, Baccarat, Banyan Tree, Belo, Moet & Chandon, HSBC, Bacchus Epicerie, and Shangri-la Fort Manila.
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Syrah is Tatler Philippines’ Power & Purpose editor, where she spotlights extraordinary journeys shaping the Philippines and Asia. She covers business, innovation, impact, and culture—chasing the people, ideas and forces shaping how we live and think today.
