Cover Meet the individuals turning influence into impact, from established business leaders to cultural icons, athletes and advocates (Illustration: Nikki Duldulao)
Meet the individuals turning influence into impact, from established business leaders to cultural icons, athletes and advocates (Illustration: Nikki Duldulao)
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From business and innovation to culture, entertainment and social impact, this year’s influential honourees reflect the breadth of Filipino impact and the individuals making their mark at home and around the world
Influence is not confined to a single industry, nor is it measured by professional standing alone. It can be seen in the businesses that create opportunities, the ideas that challenge convention, the cultural contributions that bring Filipino talent to international audiences and the initiatives that make a difference in people's lives.
This year, Tatler Philippines recognises a distinguished group of individuals whose work and achievements continue to shape their respective fields. The Tatler Most Influential list brings together established business leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, entertainers and advocates, reflecting the many forms that leadership and influence can take in the Philippines today.
Read more: Tatler Most Influential 2026: meet the people shaping Asia’s future
Above Stephanie Sy, founder and CEO of Thinking Machines, is among the honourees of Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026
Above Tech pioneer and strategist Kat Borlongan is among the honourees of Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026
Stephanie Sy, founder and CEO of Thinking Machines, is among the honourees of Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026
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In business, a new generation of leadership is emerging alongside established figures. Mariana Zobel de Ayala and Lucio Tan III represent the next chapter of influential Philippine business families, while Kevin Tan, Lance Gokongwei, Edgar “Injap” Sia II and Anton Tantoco Huang continue to contribute to the country’s evolving corporate landscape. Leaders such as Martha Sazon, Stephanie Sy and Christopher Po also demonstrate how businesses can respond to changing consumer expectations while pursuing growth and innovation. Elsewhere, Jacques Christophe Branellec brings attention to the importance of environmental stewardship and the sustainable development of marine resources.
The Philippines’ cultural influence, meanwhile, continues to travel across borders. From the international success of Lea Salonga and Dolly de Leon to the creative contributions of artists and designers such as Kenneth Cobonpue, Monique Lhuillier and Rajo Laurel, these honourees demonstrate the reach of Filipino talent across entertainment, fashion and the arts. In music, Bini and SB19 have helped bring Filipino pop to wider audiences, while personalities such as Anne Curtis, Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey, Heart Evangelista and Vice Ganda continue to command influence across entertainment and popular culture.
Sport remains another powerful platform for Filipino representation. Alex Eala’s achievements in tennis, EJ Obiena’s continued presence in international athletics and Carlos Yulo’s accomplishments in gymnastics have brought Filipino excellence to the world stage. Jordan Clarkson and Manny Pacquiao, in their respective sporting disciplines, further demonstrate the influence of Filipino athletes across generations.
Above Stephanie Naval, founder and CEO of Empath, is among the honourees of Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026
Above Live Nation Philippines managing director Rhiza Pascua is among the honourees of Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026
Stephanie Naval, founder and CEO of Empath, is among the honourees of Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026
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Beyond commercial and creative achievements, many of this year’s honourees have devoted their work to advancing causes and addressing social challenges. Journalists Maria Ressa and Karen Davila continue to contribute to public discourse, while advocates such as Cherrie Atilano, Nanette Medved-Po, Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine and Gap Legaspi demonstrate how leadership can be directed towards more inclusive opportunities, community development and better outcomes for others. Kat Borlongan and Nate Clarke also represent the role of innovation and forward-thinking approaches in addressing the needs of an evolving society.
Together, the 2026 honourees offer a portrait of a country whose influence extends well beyond its borders. Their achievements may span vastly different disciplines, but they share an ability to create opportunities, challenge expectations and contribute to something larger than themselves.
Ultimately, influence is most meaningful when it extends beyond individual success. Through their work, this year’s Tatler Most Influential honourees offer a compelling picture of Filipino ambition, talent and leadership, and the possibilities these can create for the generations to come.
Meet the leaders in the Tatler Most Influential Philippines 2026.
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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.
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